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.

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'.

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.

Our warmest congratulations go to Dr Beffa for this very well-deserved award!

Exclusive FREE online course hosted by LRF with Live Q&A

December 6 2023 - 18:00 - 19:00

A Journey of Discovery
Genomics is reshaping the way we view the world. Uncover the secrets hidden within your cattle's DNA and understand why genomics is a game-changer. Be part of the future - because genomics is a big deal!

How to register:

Fill out this Form: https://forms.gle/udzYUUvwLWe5VTkP6

OR email name and email address to: office@lrf.co.za

OR WhatsApp name and email address to: +27 81 844 4853

Click HERE to download our December 2022 Newsletter

ZHB Breeder Requirement Courses are designed to inform breeders of their requirements and formats for data submissions to the Herd Book.

Cost $10 per person. BOOKING for these courses is essential.
Email trace@lit.co.zw for more information.

Visit our Gallery of pictures of the first six courses and stud visits in Gweru, Esigodini, Chinhoyi, Macheke, Beatrice and Lobenvale.

Feb 2022 Breed Society Reports

Jan 2022 Livestock Registering Foundation (LRF) Newsletter

Livestock Registering Federation CEO's end of year message 2021

Latest 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).

Many members are not yet compliant with the Rules and Regulations of Zimbabwe Herd Book as well as of those of their Breed Societies.

In order to strengthen the integrity of ZHB, its Breed Societies and database, all members are cordially requested to ensure that their records are up-to-date at ZHB, all outstanding queries have been attended to and resolved and that all annual levies have been remitted.

Follow the links below for a summary of Breeder requirements and detailed notes in the Members Guide for your review and information.

Contact ZHB at trace@lit.co.zw or your Breed Society or fellow breeders for further clarification and assistance.

ZHB Members Guide October 2021

Summary of ZHB Breeders Requirements October 2021

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.

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.