Beef cattle production and management
Practical Action
the Zambezi Valley. The following beef breeds of cattle are found in Zimbabwe and classified as
either exotic or indigenous.
The exotics are animals that have been imported from Europe and America and the indigenous
were developed in Africa.
Specialist breeds
The specialist breeds include the breeds such as the Aberdeen Angus, Hereford and the Sussex.
These are breeds, which are specifically for beef production as they have a high feed conversion
efficiency and are most suitable for pen fattening.
Dual-purpose breeds
These are breeds which can be used for both beef and milk production such as the South
Devon and the Simmental breeds.
Zebu British synthesis (crosses)
These have been developed from crosses between the indigenous and the exotics. These
thrive well in the Zambezi Valley due to their inherent characteristics of both indigenous and
exotic beef cattle.
Breeds suitable for the Zambezi Valley
Characteristics of Mashona Breed:
They are a small-framed breed
Have early carcass maturity and a high
dressing out percentage
They are hardy with a high degree of
fertiIity
Better disease resistance
Have excellent cow fertility and calf
productivity
Mature early and adapt to high
temperatures
A short oestrus cycle and high calving
percentage even under harsh conditions
Calving difficulties are very minimal
Have a docile temperament, which allows
for ease of handling
They are good grazers and make use of
poor grazing conditions
They are not good for pen fattening, as they are prone to laminitis when they are enclosed in
pens and fed on high diets
Range in colour from black, dark brown, red, red and white
Characteristics of Nkone
Breed:
They are off medium size
Highly fertile
Superior mothering abilities
resulting in a high calf survival
Instances of difficult birth (dystocia)
are very minimal
Ease of calving in cross breeding
systems
They are hardy and can easiIy adapt
to harsh conditions
They have a good longevity
Average growth rates
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