Zimbabwe gets cattle semen from Indonesia
The shipment includes semen from five cattle breeds, 200 doses of Brahma (SW Universe), 200 doses of Simmental (NightHawk), 200 doses of Holstein (VF Boltz), 200 doses of Limousine (Mr. Mou) and 200 doses of Red Angus (The Night).
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Indonesian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dewa Made Sastrawan, emphasised the importance of the initiative, saying it will enhance cooperation in agriculture and contribute to the prosperity of both nations.
He noted that Zimbabwe is among five African countries benefiting from the programme, alongside Tanzania, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Madagascar.
“This regional initiative demonstrates our commitment to supporting agricultural development and food security across the continent.
“I am confident that this grant and our technical assistance programme will enhance cooperation in agriculture and contribute to the prosperity of our nations,” he said.
Sastrawan was optimistic that Indonesia and Zimbabwe will soon conclude a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the field of agriculture.
“This agreement will further strengthen and expand various cooperative programmes in the agricultural sector. Indonesia remains committed to being a dedicated development partner for Zimbabwe, supporting its National Development Strategy,” he said.
He said experts from Singosari Artificial Insemination Centre in Indonesia have been to Zimbabwe to share expertise in the management of artificial insemination.
The experts visited farms in Masvingo, Gweru, Kwekwe, Esigodini, and Bulawayo, facilitating knowledge exchange in artificial insemination practices.
“I believe our bilateral cooperation in agriculture will align with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, aiming to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy,” Sastrawn said.
Secretary for the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, praised the collaboration and noted the impactful work of the Indonesian technical team during their visit from November 29 to December 6, 2024.
“I am indebted to the Government of Indonesia. Significant progress has been made since the Letter of Commitment for Developing Artificial Insemination was signed in June 2021,” Jiri said.
He cited milestones such as workshops, training sessions, and ongoing technical assistance.
Jiri affirmed the importance of this partnership, saying it enhances farmer support, livestock productivity, and agricultural sustainability.
“By working together, our nations can address common challenges, promote sustainable practices, and drive innovation in agriculture,” he said.
Jiri encouraged both local and international investors to leverage Zimbabwe’s conducive business environment, emphasising opportunities through Public-Private Partnerships, Joint Ventures and Private Investments.
“Creating partnerships between our countries has immense potential for improving food security, rural development, and economic prosperity,” he said.
He also reiterated the moral and economic imperative of poverty reduction, calling for shared benefits from agricultural transformation.
“Agriculture remains the engine for economic growth. Together, we can achieve lasting impact and contribute towards agricultural development goals.
“Creating partnership between our countries will foster immense potential for creating positive impacts on food security, rural development, and economic prosperity in both Zimbabwe and Indonesia.
“Through dialogue, exchange of ideas, and joint initiatives, we can explore new avenues for agricultural investment, technology transfer, capacity building, and market access,” Jiri said.
New Ziana
