Smallholder livestock farmers have been encouraged to take part in a government programme aimed at boosting beef exports to $1 billion annually.
Fisheries and Livestock Minister Peter Kapala says farmers should join Animal Disease-Free Compartments (ADFCs), which are designed to improve access to international markets.
Speaking during a visit to a livestock market centre in Katete, Eastern Province, Mr. Kapala says the scheme is open to all farmers, not just large-scale producers.
He says the government is investing in infrastructure and raising awareness to expand the compartments, which are seen as key to increasing the country’s beef export capacity.
Farmers participating in the programme are expected to benefit from more stable and potentially higher prices, as only certified beef from ADFCs will be eligible for export.
Meanwhile, Katete Town Council Secretary Kate Leo Mukonde says the local authority will support the initiative.
She says plans are underway to build a modern abattoir using Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources to strengthen the livestock sector.
By Best Jere
