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ZHB Beef and Small Stock School: 15 - 17 Sept 2026 at ART Farm Harare The venue move to the capital after years of being hosted in Bulawayo improves accessibility for farmers and students, cuts travel costs, and continues to offer a world-class programme featuring local and international experts. Over the 3 days, a very wide range of up-to-the-minute topics are covered, including data-driven breeding and 'Year of the Boran' genetics, practical artificial insemination, wireworm management, and a live sheepdog demonstration. |
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Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3zZD2qx4peE6nC6e6 Directions from Chinhoyi: Take Chegutu Road. Travel 17.5km, past Biri Dam turn off, past Biri/Portelet School and clinic either side of road. Rumble strips will get your attention! Take next left - broken wall and grid. Drive 1km, then keep right at fork, drive 1.5 km to Field Day. Directions from Chegutu:
Travel 72.5km.
Turn right into Portelet. Drive 1km, then keep right at fork, drive 1.5 km to Field Day.
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| A Tribute, a Sale, a Legacy - 3rd Annual Indigenous Breed Sale at ADMA 2026
Zimbabwe's stud breeders gathered at the ADMA Agrishow for the 3rd Annual Indigenous Breed Sale - and the quality this year was a real step up. This Sale showcases the hardy, locally adapted breeds that have shaped the country's cattle and sheep industry for generations; the one sale of the year where these breeds are presented together. Proceedings were opened for ADMA by Marco Garizio. Tribute to a Tuli legend The sale then opened, with the sheep; a strong line-up of Dorper rams, and for the very first time, an indigenous Zambezi Valley sheep breed, now being registered with the Zimbabwe Herd Book. Estimated to have been in Zimbabwe for around a thousand years, these remarkably tough, fertile animals are now being registered with ZHB. From there the auction moved through the cattle: Tuli, Nkone and Mashona, with bulls and heifers presented by studs from across the country. Pedigree authentication for the sale was handled by Dr Mario Beffa of ZHB. |
Honouring the best heifer Thanks to Fivet for their sponsorship, CC Sales for conducting the auction, and every breeder and buyer keeping Zimbabwe's indigenous genetics thriving. |
In Memoriam - Chris Johnson It is with great sadness that the Zimbabwean Herd Book announces the passing of Chris Johnson, a stalwart of the Tuli cattle breeding industry, on 8 February 2026. Chris Johnson was a dedicated breeder for over fifty years. Throughout his long career, he consistently demonstrated excellence, integrity, and kindness. His calm wisdom and level-headed approach, combined with his steadfast commitment to the Tuli breed, the broader cattle industry, and the community, made him a respected figure whose presence will be deeply missed. Chris was a man guided by strong Christian principles. He was well known for his generosity, compassion, and unwavering values. These qualities shaped his interactions with others and contributed greatly to his reputation within the industry. The Johnson’s Jambo Tuli stud has played a pivotal role in the growth and establishment of the Tuli breed in Zimbabwe. Chris’s efforts and contributions have left an enduring mark on the cattle industry, ensuring that his work will not be forgotten. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues. May his memory continue to be a blessing to us all.
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In Memoriam - Jeff Sommer It is with shock and regret that the Zimbabwe Herd Book records the passing of Jeff Sommer, a prominent Brahman stud breeder and commercial producer. Jeff H. Sommer completed his high school education at Milton before attending Gwebi Agricultural College. His formative years laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to agriculture and cattle breeding. Together with his brothers, Jeff ventured into the cattle business, establishing a pedigree Brahman herd under the name Sommer Ranching. In 1991, they expanded their operations by taking over the BF herd from the late Peter Grant, further cementing their reputation in the industry. Jeff was a founding member of the Brahman Breeders Society at its inception in 1979. He served on the Brahman and Herd Book councils multiple times, actively participating in the society’s and Herd Book’s development and direction. Jeff’s cattle were regularly sold at the National Bull Sale, where his hardy, well-adapted bulls were always in high demand. The Sommer Ranching team also hold annual production sales. Jeff played a key role in improving the quality of their herd by importing stud bulls from South Africa, working with respected breeders such as Theo Dicke and Jan Serfontein. He was known for his discerning eye, able to quickly identify a promising stud sire and always sought confirmation from others before making his final choice. Jeff was a fascinating individual, capable of engaging others in conversation on a wide range of topics. His home was always open, providing accommodation and warm hospitality to visitors. The Herd Book family extend their condolences to his wife, Rifca, his daughter, Jaimie, and his brother, Henry. |
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In Memoriam Carmen Stubbs, Fertyline Mashona Cattle Stud We celebrate the life and legacy of Carmen Stubbs, a pioneering cattle breeder, who dedicated her life to promoting and preserving Zimbabwe's indigenous Mashona cattle breed. For 62 years, Carmen worked tirelessly to conserve and improve the genetic integrity of the Mashona breed. She leaves behind a wealth of knowledge and a lasting impact on Zimbabwe's agricultural heritage. Her work will without doubt continue to inspire and influence the cattle breeding community in Zimbabwe. She passed away peacefully, aged 90, on 17th March 2025, surrounded by her children. Carmen will be remembered for her passionate dedication to Mashona cattle improvement and promotion. She enthusiastically shared her vast knowledge with the surrounding community and interested farmers. One of a special kind of cattle breeder who has long championed Zimbabwe’s indigenous cattle breeds, Carmen has done much over the last more than six decades to help ensure the survival, integrity and improvement of Zimbabwe’s indigenous cattle genetic heritage. The livestock community are indebted for her dedicated skill and foresight. Carmen will be remembered for her sense of humour, courage, friendship and advice and support of the Zimbabwe Herd Book over many years. Click HERE to read about Carmen's remarkable life and legacy |
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| Links to LRF Newsletters | Links to LRF Tech Services Newsletters |
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| May 2026 | Dec 2025 | April 2025 | March 2026 | |
ZHB Stud Reactivation Stud herds are declared inactive by Zimbabwe Herd Book when no response is received from breeders regarding the requirement to submit levy returns and make payment by the specified date. Breeders and their respective Breed Societies are then informed of this inactive status. Breeders may apply for reactivation of their studs by writing to their respective Breed Society. A commitment to ensure compliance with ZHB requirements and payment dates must be included in the application letter. On receipt of the letter by the Society, the Society must carry out due diligence to confirm the following:
Applicants should be aware that the respective Breed Society may raise fees for the above service. Once due diligence is complete, the Society must inform ZHB in writing that it is satisfied that active stud herd status of the breeder should be reinstated. A copy of the letter of application from the breeder must be included. Send all communications to: trace@lit.co.zw |
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Welcome to the LRF Tipsheet and Video Series Each month, we spotlight a key trait you should be recording - and why it matters. Kicking off with birth weight, this series covers everything you need to know: Why you should record it, how to do it, how to submit your recordings, and how to interpret the EBVs! In just 2 minutes, our YouTube video breaks it all down. Plus, see the one page tipsheet for a quick, easy reference to keep on hand: All you need, to get the most out of your data! |
| RTU Scanning
ZHB organises to bring RTU Scanning Services to Zimbabwe annually for our breeders, usually in May. For more information about the next time RTU will come to Zimbabwe, contact Nyasha on +263 77 412 2660 or email: trace@lit.co.zw Why do RTU scanning? RTU Scanning helps you see what your live animals look like under their hides. Assess the carcass merit of an individual animal whilst still alive, as opposed to the collection of carcass data post-slaughter: Follow this YouTube link for a practical demonstration of RTU Scanning |
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RTU scanning results are highly correlated to carcass traits. The traits measured are:
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The importance of stud livestock, pedigrees and records for the livestock sector Maintaining accurate records and pedigrees is vital for a thriving livestock sector in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwe Herd Book plays a crucial role in documenting the lineage and performance of pedigree cattle, sheep, and goats, ensuring the integrity of breeding stock. Just like a vehicle history report, ZHB records provide farmers with confidence in their investments, allowing for informed breeding decisions that enhance herd productivity. By registering with the ZHB and breed societies, breeders demonstrate a commitment to excellence and industry standards. Read more about the importance of stud livestock and pedigree records at Agriculture.co.zw |
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May 2024: Agrishow sizzles with first-ever Sanga Cattle Sale The final day of the ADMA Agrishow at ART Farm, Pomona, Harare featured a historic event - the first-ever combined indigenous Sanga cattle breeds auction. Considered Zimbabwe's biggest agricultural showcase, the ADMA Agrishow provided the perfect platform for this groundbreaking sale. The cattle pens, conveniently located at the far right of the grounds, attracted a constant stream of visitors throughout the three-day event. For many, the sight of cattle brought back nostalgic memories of classic agricultural shows. This return to tradition was a hit with the crowds, especially those who witnessed a piece of livestock history unfold. Local legends take centre stage Auctioneer in action Sales Statistics Mashona Nkone Tuli After the sale, Zimbabwe National Indigenous Breeds Sale (ZNIBS) chairman Mark Hook expressed his delight at how well it went, adding that the venue was ideal as it created the perfect vehicle to generate further public interest in these breeds. See photos of this 2024 event in the gallery below. Note: Each cattle breed has its own breed society to which stud breeders must register and belong. These societies and breeders, in turn, come under the umbrella of the Zimbabwe Herd Book. The societies promote and protect the interests of their breed of cattle in terms of their respective rules under ZHB regulations. In essence, these cattle are the “seed stock” of Zimbabwean cattle. |
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HerdMASTER 5 Announcement from the Agricultural Business Research Insitute (ABRI) January 2024 HerdMASTER 4 has many known issues. For months ABRI has been working with dedicated and loyal customers to keep it alive while we investigate the future of HerdMASTER. ABRI is pleased to announce that it will continue to offer the HerdMASTER product, starting with an increased investment and plan for HerdMASTER 5. HerdMASTER 5 will be focused on fixing the core issues of HerdMASTER 4. Customers can expect:
Importantly, ABRI will not be changing any functionality or features with the HerdMASTER 5 release.
The aim is to deliver HerdMASTER 5 in Q1 2024 (Feb-Mar). HerdMASTER 5 is a fix. ABRI also plans major improvements. Once released, plans for a next version will commence immediately, to address long term problems with on-farm software, and aim to achieve:
To get this right ABRI will reach out to current and past HerdMASTER users to understand how best to improve HerdMASTER. |
Farewell to Keith Swales - Rest in Peace It is with great sadness that ZHB informs you of the passing of Keith Swales in Cape Town in January 2024. From his teaching days at Guineafowl and Milton to his farming days in Darwendale, Keith has touched the lives of many. He leaves a legacy from the classroom across the sports fields, with the Zimbabwe Tobacco Seed Association and Santa Gertrudis Society of Zimbabwe, to mention but a few. We will miss you Keith, gone but never forgotten. Condolences to his family and friends. |
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| In May 2019 Keith Swales stepped down after serving as Chairman of the Zimbabwe Herd Book for 17 years, from 2002 to 2019, guiding the stud industry through some difficult times. Keith was given a unanimous vote of thanks for his excellent guidance and steadfast leadership during the difficult period of land reform and subsequent economic changes. ZHB still has relevance post-land reform and is an important reference point for the pedigree industry.
Keith noted that he had been on the Council since 1988 and reflected on several momentous occasions such as guiding the Herd Book through its lowest ebb, and the installation of both StudMaster and MBREED and then BREEDPLAN®, the hosting of Beef Schools and was a driving force in the continued successes of the annual National Breed Sales. |
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Dr Mario Beffa wins CFU 2023 Oscar
ZHB General Manager Dr Mario Beffa Office was in November announced winner of the 2023 Commercial Farmers Union Farming Oscar. Dr Beffa’s first job was in 1984 at Matopos Research Station. He was Chief Research Officer, responsible for the administration of cattle breeding research programmes. In 1999, Dr Beffa was appointed General Manager of the Livestock Identification Trust which successfully launched the Zimbabwe Cattle Traceability Scheme. In 2009 he was appointed General Manager of the Zimbabwe Herd Book, the registry for pedigree livestock in Zimbabwe. Over the years, winners have been chosen from both the practical and scientific disciplines of agriculture, as well as for administration and leadership roles, with winners selected in recognition of having contributed significantly to agricultural progress in Zimbabwe in its widest sense. |
Dr Beffa was interviewed by Agribusiness. Enjoy the interview here:
The Zimbabwean 'Farming Oscar' has a long and proud history. Introduced in 1961 by the late Mr C G Tracy, the then Vice President of the Commercial Farmers’ Union, the award recognises 'those who have generally done well for agriculture'. Our warmest congratulations go to Dr Beffa for this well-deserved award!
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| Zimbabwe Beef Producer’s Society (ZBPS) | Zimbabwe Beef Producer’s Society Council: | |
Our Inaugural Meeting took place on 12 May 2023. Guest Speaker was Cover Crop Specialist Abel Nell, from Barenbrug, South Africa. Following last year’s Beef School and supported by ZHB, an Interim Committee was established. The BPS is a collective of beef producers and farmers who own or are interested in owning cattle. The Society is inclusive, representing small and large-scale producers as well as stud breeders. All members of Herd Book are automatically members of the Society. Its primary objective is to provide a voice for the beef sector. Click here for the adopted Constitution. Follow the links below to access Abel Nell's presentation, the paper and slides delivered by Jaco Erasmus with the relevant Excel spreadsheets, and minutes of the inaugural meeting. Abel Nell - Quality Feed from Pastures Jaco Erasmus PowerPoint slides Jaco Erasmus document explaining workings of his Excel spreadsheets Jaco Erasmus Excel MLSR demo to capture monthly livestock returns Jaco Erasmus Excel GM Analysis Template to summarise enterprise productivity Zim Beef Producers Society Inaugural Meeting Minutes Statistics derived from standardised livestock returns can be a useful starting point for comparison either between years for a producer or between producers. Average Animal Unit figures from here can be used to specify financial figures on a per animal unit basis for further analysis, budgeting and modelling. Ultimately, recorded financial figures can be expressed on a per animal unit basis to give a Gross Margin per Animal Unit which is a useful comparison measure. The analyses are dependent on members completing the MLSR returns on a monthly basis. Ideally, historic figures will also be entered for January to June. The GM Analysis Template can be completed on an annual basis. However it is useful for monthly figures also to be kept. Members are encouraged to share summary of data from the GM Analysis Template ($ per Avg. AU and percentage of Avg; i.e. excludes submission of sensitive personal data) with the Society as central database, to enable calculations and national averages. These will be useful benchmark values for members to compare their production. |
Harare: Manicaland: Mash Central: Mash East: Mash West: Masvingo: Mat North: Mat South: Midlands: Bulawayo: |
Anne Cooke and Doug Bruce Stu Tippett Shingai Jaravaza and Dave Wakefield Charles Mufudze Lianne Herbst Godard Tafirei Troy Maidwell Ranga Huruba George Chiunda and Fred Chimhenga Ncebisi Bruce Ndlovu |
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| Andrew Chamisa: Brian Beattie: Jaco Erasmus: Kevin Higgins: Blessing Ndoro: Mario Beffa: |
GOZ Abattoirs Technical Services Auctions/Marketing LMAC ZHB |
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| A Fond Farewell to
'Oom Japie'
Legendary Vet, Dr Japie Jackson, still working in his 90s, died peacefully in his sleep on 25 April 2023, aged 92. In Carmen Stubbs' words: Dr J. J. Jackson, fondly known as 'Oom Japie', freely gave his excellent advice to all. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. Cattle farmers will continue to quote him for many more years. His skills, knowledge and shared reasoning, will remain with us always. His praises of our indigenous Mashona Cattle, our efficient small cow, will always be remembered. |
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| Memories of his enthusiasm and friendship will be cherished forever. | ||
We congratulate Dr Mario Beffa on his appointment in December 2022 as Acting CEO for the Livestock Registering Federation on a part-time/short-term basis. Asked about this appointment, Mario had this to say: "I am looking forward to this new and interesting post which will not only assist me in understanding and serving a segment of the South African beef industry but also place me in a better position to serve the ZHB. The cattle sectors in SA, Namibia and Zimbabwe have much in common and creating linkages between the various breed societies at home and in SA and Namibia will stimulate the adoption of technologies and enhance the performance evaluations." |
Theileriosis Information and Guidance At the Mashona Cattle Society AGM in December 2021 Professor John Lawrence gave a very informative presentation on Theileriosis. Livestock Today Magazine published this article, reporting back on his presentation. Thanks to Livestock Today for sharing this: Livestock Today: "Control and treatment of Theileriosis to reduce cattle deaths" (Prof John Lawrence report back). |
We share this sad news, and message from ABRI, which is a fitting tribute to an amazing man and ardent friend and supporter of the Zimbabwe stud industry. We were saddened to hear of the passing of our colleague and dear friend Dr Michael Bradfield who lost his battle with cancer in January 2022. Dr Bradfield worked as a genetics consultant for over 20 years and played an instrumental part in the implementation and ongoing management of the genetic evaluation system, BREEDPLAN, and on-farm software, HerdMASTER, throughout southern Africa. Dr Bradfield studied at the University of New England (UNE), obtaining a PhD in Animal Genetics before commencing as a research scientist with the UNE's Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU). Following this, Dr Bradfield relocated to South Africa, where he established the Agricultural Business South Africa (AgriBSA), and subsequently the Livestock Registering Federation (LRF). The LRF provide support to breed societies clients spanning southern Africa using a range of the Agricultural Business Research Institute's (ABRI) software and services, including HerdMASTER and BREEDPLAN. ABRI's managing director, Mr Hugh Nivison, spoke of Dr Bradfield's personal approach. “Since becoming involved with BREEDPLAN during his time in Australia, Michael was determined the cattle breeders of Africa should be able to experience the same benefits of genetic improvement available to their colleagues around the world. Michael’s drive and enthusiasm made it nearly impossible for anyone to resist his efforts, with the resulting widespread adoption throughout southern Africa”, said Mr Nivison. |
In Memoriam
Dr Michael Bradfield 
Passionate, dedicated, full of seemingly boundless energy and an expert and leader in his field, Dr Bradfield will be remembered for his contribution to the livestock industry, amongst the many other accolades owed to him. He will be sorely missed by many, and his legacy will stand the test of time. To Michael’s wife, Elmarie, and children, Robin and David, please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences for your loss. |
