As stock theft continues to plague farmers in the Great Dyke, authorities are urging livestock owners to take proactive measures, with branding emerging as a key solution to aid in recovery efforts and police investigations.
Inspector Saxson Dube, the Anti-Stock Theft Coordinator for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo, emphasized the importance of unique branding for cattle, noting that it significantly improves the chances of recovering stolen livestock.
“Branding is a vital tool in the fight against stock theft. It helps identify and trace stolen cattle, making it easier for the police to investigate and track down criminals,” said Dube.
Stock theft remains a major concern in Zimbabwe, with the ZRP reporting between 5,000 and 10,000 cases annually. The problem intensified in 2023, as stock theft cases increased by 4% from the previous year, with cattle thefts rising by 11%. Despite a reduction in goat and bird thefts, the overall rise in livestock theft highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
In Manyame District, Mashonaland West, the situation worsened in 2023, with stock theft cases surging by 22%. Between January and May 2023, 178 incidents were reported, up from 156 in the same period the previous year. The stolen livestock ranged from cattle to goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens, underscoring the broad scope of the issue.
In contrast, Masvingo Province experienced a slight decline of 4% in stock theft cases, with 360 incidents recorded between May 2022 and April 2023, compared to 347 in the same period the following year. Nonetheless, the overall picture remains concerning, with farmers and law enforcement working together to address the growing problem.
With branding seen as an effective measure to curb stock theft, the call to action is clear: Zimbabwe’s livestock farmers must prioritize marking their cattle to ensure better protection, recovery, and enforcement of justice.
