ZIMBABWE Commercial Rabbit Breeders Association (Zicobra) president Regis Nyamakanga has vowed to continue driving the rabbit farming sector towards prosperity over the next two years, after being re-elected to the association’s presidency.
Nyamakanga has been the president of Zicobra since 2020, with each term covering a two-year term.
Nyamakanga is deputised by Daniel Owen Pswarai, from Gweru, who replaces Abigail Japajapa.
Thabiso Gwemende, a young farmer from Bulawayo, takes over from Ntokozo Sibanda as national secretary-general.
Meanwhile, Mavis Mupingo succeeds James Samhembere as national treasurer.
In an interview with NewsDay Farming, Nyamakanga said he was optimistic about the future for rabbit farmers despite the economic challenges.
“As the president of Zicobra, I recognise that businesses across Zimbabwe are facing unprecedented challenges.
“The economic climate is tough, costs are rising and many industries are struggling to stay afloat. But, in every challenge, there is an opportunity,” he said.
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“For us in the rabbit industry, this is a time to innovate, adapt and grow. My mission as president is simply to put more money into the pockets of rabbit farmers.
“This will not happen by chance. It requires a deliberate and strategic effort to ensure that rabbit meat and value-added products become the most sought-after in Zimbabwe and beyond.”
He said over the past few years, Zicobra had made great strides in value-addition, ensuring that rabbit farming was not just about production, but also about creating high-value products that market appeal.
“This journey will continue with even greater intensity because the future of our industry depends on diversification, innovation and quality,” Nyamakanga continued.
He urged farmers to pay more attention to severe diseases that had affected a lot of breeders, adding that the association would implement stricter measures on disease control.
“However, our growth must be protected. The recent reports of rabbit deaths in Harare serve as a reminder that biosecurity must be a top priority,” Nyamakanga said.
“We cannot afford to take chances with diseases such as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease, which has caused devastation in South Africa.
“Going forward, we will intensify efforts to safeguard our farms, implement stricter disease control measures and educate farmers on best practices.”
He said since its formation, the main goal of the association was to expand market access through strengthening partnerships with retailers, restaurants and export markets to ensure the availability of rabbit products.
“The association is also planning on investing in the processing and value-addition of rabbit sausages and smoked rabbit to ready-to-eat meals. We will develop high-quality, convenient products that cater to modern consumers,” Nyamakanga said.
“We aim to empower farmers through training and support. A thriving industry requires knowledgeable farmers.
“We will increase training opportunities, focusing on efficient breeding, cost-effective production, and disease management, and advocate for a better business environment through engagement with policymakers.”
He added that Zicobra would push for incentives and policies that made rabbit farming more profitable and sustainable.
“Let’s continue to produce high-quality rabbit products at the best possible cost, knowing that demand for healthy, sustainable meat alternatives is growing,” Nyamakanga added.
Zicorba was formed in July 2020 and remains the sole representative voice of rabbit farmers in Zimbabwe.
