Mafuro Farming, a dairy farm in Zimbabwe, has been making waves in the industry with its large herd of 2,230 dairy cows, which are a mix of Jersey and Holstein breeds. With a whopping investment of US$5.24 million over the past two years, this farm is owned by Innscor Africa Limited, one of the largest businesses listed on the stock exchange in Zimbabwe. The farm exclusively supplies its milk to Prodairy, a processing plant in Ruwa that is also owned by Innscor.
The success of Mafuro Farming can be attributed to its strategic partnerships and innovative practices. The farm has collaborated with the government of Zimbabwe to establish a training facility for young dairy farmers. By working closely with the Grasslands Research Institute in Marondera, Mafuro Farming aims to empower aspiring farmers and create sustainable opportunities for the dairy industry. Additionally, the farm has adopted cutting-edge technologies like the inter-herd plus computer program, which helps in monitoring and managing crucial information related to the dairy operations.
Furthermore, Mafuro Farming has incorporated sustainable practices into its operations to reduce input costs and operate on a low-cost model. The farm collects and utilises cow manure as fertiliser on its pastures, minimising the need for inorganic fertilisers. This eco-friendly approach not only benefits the farm economically but also contributes to environmental conservation.
In an effort to meet the growing demand for raw milk in Zimbabwe and the southern African region, Mafuro Farming has invested in advanced management software like Afimilk. This software plays a crucial role in improving herd health and profitability by enabling early diagnosis and treatment of various health issues in the cows. By focusing on efficient farming practices and investing in technology, the farm aims to achieve self-sufficiency in meeting the country’s milk demand and reduce reliance on imported milk powder.
Zimbabwe’s dairy industry has shown significant growth in recent years, with annual milk production increasing from 79.6 million litres in 2021 to 90 million litres in 2022. This 15% growth has led to a decline in milk imports in the country, showcasing the potential for local dairy farms to meet the domestic demand. With support from the EU, Zimbabwe is also working on enhancing its national dairy livestock genetics by sourcing high-quality heifers from neighbouring countries like South Africa.
Overall, Mafuro Farming stands as a shining example of how innovative practices, strategic partnerships, and sustainable approaches can drive success in the dairy industry. By prioritising efficiency, technology, and collaboration, this farm is not only meeting the demands of the market but also contributing to the growth and development of the dairy sector in Zimbabwe.
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