By Patience Gondo
THE Government has introduced reforms in the livestock, dairy and stockfeed sectors to strengthen agriculture which supports about 65 percent of Zimbabwe’s livelihoods.
The Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Mthuli Ncube said the reforms remove duplication, reduce regulatory costs and simplify compliance for farmers and processors.
Farm registration fees under the Agriculture Marketing Authority have been cut to a US$1 flat fee. Small and medium farmers will no longer require a farm registration certificate.
He said livestock movement clearance has also been reduced to US$5 per herd.
Several levies and permits affecting farmers and processors have been scrapped or reduced.
The ministry said agriculture remains the backbone of the economy and a major source of employment, particularly in rural communities.
“Government is elevating efforts to retain agriculture as the mainstay and engine of the economy, cognisant of its crucial role in job creation, particularly for the rural population, supporting 65 percent of livelihoods and the bulk of the country’s exports,” the ministry said.
However, the sector has long been hampered by excessive regulations, high compliance costs and duplication of responsibilities across institutions.
For example, the ministry said dairy farmers previously required up to 25 permits from 12 agencies, while feed manufacturers needed 23 permits from 10 departments.
Ncube said the reforms are expected to encourage investment, boost production and strengthen rural livelihoods.