Goat Meat is in Short Supply in Zimbabwe: Sifiso Agbetorwoka

Sifiso Agbetorwoka, a well-known goat farmer in Zimbabwe and the owner of Bulembe Farm, recently hosted a Goat Breeding Masterclass at her farm. She highlighted the challenges facing goat farmers in Zimbabwe, noting that they are struggling to meet the demand for goats. "The market (for goats) is there, but we are not able to supply the market," Sifiso stated.

Sifiso also talked about her visit to Texas Meats, one of the largest meat retailers in Zimbabwe. She noted that they indicated a need for 30 goats each week, which amounts to over 1,500 goats annually.

In Bulawayo, the demand for goat meat has been steadily increasing. However, many shops and butcheries struggle to keep up with this demand. Goat farmers face challenges meeting market needs due to factors such as limited resources.

This shortage often leaves consumers searching for goat meat without much success, highlighting the need for more support from government and private players to ensure a consistent and reliable supply. Ethiopia is the largest goat exporter, boasting over 52 million goats, while Zimbabwe has only 5 million. This contrast underscores the potential for growth in Zimbabwe's goat farming industry.

Sifiso also spoke about the Muslim market: "Sometime during COVID, I was approached by a Muslim elder who wanted me to supply the Bulawayo Muslim community with 900 goats per year, divided into lots of 300, three times per year for Muslim festivals like Ramadan."

Goat meat is a staple in many cultures, and its significance goes beyond just being a source of food. In Zimbabwe, for example, slaughtering a goat during significant life events such as the birth of a child or a wedding is a cherished tradition. It serves as a way to celebrate and bring the community together.

The goat industry itself is indeed lucrative. During festive periods like Christmas, selling goats for meat can be especially brisk. Many families and communities seek high-quality meat for their celebrations, creating a high demand for goat meat. It's often used in traditional dishes and feasts, making it a crucial part of holiday gatherings. Sifiso added that goat sellers in Eziphaleni area can sell up to 100 goats per week during the Christmas season.

Beyond Christmas, other holidays and events such as Easter and community festivals also drive significant demand for goat meat. This steady demand throughout the year makes the goat meat industry a viable and profitable business venture. By capitalizing on these peak times, sellers can maximize their returns while providing an essential service to their communities.
Lodges and hotels also require goat meat. For instance, Rainbow Hotel has a restaurant that serves traditional foods, including goat meat. Farmers struggle to consistently meet these demands.

Sifiso Agbetorwoka's insights reveal a significant supply-demand gap in Zimbabwe's goat meat market. To capitalize on the growing consumer interest, government and private support are essential for empowering local farmers. By addressing these challenges, Zimbabwe can enhance its goat farming sector and meet both domestic and potential global demands.