By Bonakele Mabuza
MBABANE – The act of random wild fires allegedly started by certain people in the country have the potential of reducing the production of meat.
The Director of Livestock and Veterinary Services Dr Xolani Dlamini expressed concern over the detrimental impact of uncontrolled fires on the Eswatini livestock industry.
He highlighted that today (Thursday, July 18, 2024) during a live interview on Kusile Breakfast Show with host Sifiso Nxumalo. The discussion was centred around the upcoming launch of the Eswatini Livestock Value Chain Development Project (ELVCDP) at Lubulini, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices for livestock production.
The Director emphasised the critical role of grass as a primary source of food for livestock in Eswatini. He highlighted that the indiscriminate burning of grass across the country poses a significant threat to the production of meat. When grass is burned, it not only deprives livestock of essential food, but also hampers the overall production capacity of the industry, according to Dlamini.
Addressing the issue, Dlamini urged the community to consider the adverse effects of fires before engaging in uncontrolled burning practices. He mentioned that such actions not only impact farmers and the economy but also jeopardise the country’s ability to produce sufficient meat for its population. As part of the ministry’s strategic vision, Dlamini outlined plans to enhance food production for livestock by integrating crop residues into their diet.
“As a nation, we are excelling in some areas while facing challenges in others. At this moment, the widespread fires raging across our country are having a profound impact. It is crucial for everyone to understand that the grass being consumed by these fires is a vital resource essential for our livestock,” he declared.
Furthermore, Dlamini highlighted the ministry’s initiative to promote integrated agriculture by planting crops specifically for livestock consumption. Even during the winter season, after harvests, efforts are made to cultivate crops that can sustain livestock during dry periods. He shared that this holistic approach aims to ensure a balanced diet for livestock while fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Despite the challenges encountered by the Ministry in producing food for livestock, Dlamini recognised that the nation can supply meat for its citizens without resorting to imports. He said the Ministry is aware that Eswatini farmers are putting in significant effort to raise livestock and they are appreciating that.
Dlamini also recognised the crucial role played by the media in assisting the Ministry to connect with farmers nationwide. He emphasised that the media was a key stakeholder in the Ministry of Agriculture, utilised for advertising, educating, and updating farmers on the Ministry’s upcoming initiatives.
He affirmed that various media platforms such as newspapers, television, and radio were used as platform to disseminate information effectively. He asserted that this outreach strategy ensured that information reaches even those in rural areas.
However, Dlamini highlighted that the Ministry did not solely rely on media for information dissemination. They actively engage with communities by visiting them, initiating conversations, addressing queries, and fostering connections beyond media channels.
