Cletus Mushanawani Mashonaland Central Bureau
RUSHINGA Rural District Council has scored a first among the 60 rural authorities across the country by unveiling a $2,1 million industry through its Chimhanda Cattle Sale Pens.

In an interview, Rushinga Rural District Council chief executive Mr Paradzai Munyede said an average of 100 beasts are sold at Chimhanda Cattle Auction every Tuesday.

“We are proud to announce that our cattle auctioning initiative is changing lives for the people of Rushinga District,” he said.

“Buyers are travelling from as far as Harare to buy cattle in our district. They are bringing cash to the locals.

“In the past, middlemen were paying villagers an average of $200 for their cattle, but now locals are being paid an average of $400 per beast.

“On average, $45 000 is being realised from the sale of cattle every Tuesday, translating to $180 000 per month and $2 160 000 per year. This is big business for rural district councils and if the 60 local authorities were to adopt this concept, our revenue sources will be boosted.”

Mr Munyede said the cattle auctioning helped reduce stock-theft and trading of infected cattle.

“The cattle auction is a one-stop shop as all Government departments ranging from the police and veterinary department will be there to check the cattle,” he said.

“Employment has also been created for transporters, as well as other small to medium enterprises as some of them sell food for the buyers, auctioneers, locals and cattle herders.

“There is no reason for the locals to travel to cities and towns to acquire some of the goods like electrical gadgets and furniture when these could be availed during the auction days.

“Since people are being paid cash, the money should continue circulating there and this will help in improving people’s lives.”

Mr Munyede called for Government support to revive the beef industry in the province.

“Although Government has come up with the Command Livestock initiative, areas like Rushinga, Mbire and lower parts of Muzarabani should also benefit,” he said.

“The areas are ideal for cattle ranching. We also need to contribute in the reviving of the leather industry.

“The more cattle we have the more economic benefits that will come our way.”

Mr Munyede said the district was lagging behind in water and sanitation provisions and initiatives like the cattle auctions would help in turning around the economic fortunes of the area.