THE global rabbit farming industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for healthy and sustainable protein sources. With over one million tonnes of rabbit meat consumed worldwide annually, generating US$7,5 billion in revenue, the industry is poised for further expansion. By 2025, the global rabbit meat market is expected to reach 1,8 million tonnes, growing at a compound annual rate of 2,3%. In Zimbabwe, local rabbit producers are well-positioned to capitalise on this trend. In this exclusive interview with our assistant editor Mthandazo Nyoni (MN), Zimbabwe Commercial Rabbit Breeders Association (Zicorba) president Regis Nyamakanga (RN, pictured) shares insights into the opportunities and challenges facing the local rabbit farming industry. Find below, excerpts of the interview:
MN: How would you describe the state of the rabbit breeding industry in Zimbabwe in 2024 and what were some of the major challenges faced by breeders?
RN: The rabbit breeding industry in Zimbabwe in 2024 has shown steady growth, with an increasing number of farmers transitioning to commercial production.
However, challenges persist, including outbreaks of diseases, climate change impacts like heatwaves causing rabbit fatalities and the El Niño-induced drought that increased the cost of rabbit feed.
Additionally, reduced disposable income among breeders has affected subscription payments and industry-wide participation.
MN: What initiatives has Zicorba undertaken in 2024 to support its members and promote the industry?
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RN: Zicorba has spearheaded several key initiatives this year. We organised nationwide commercial rabbit farming training programmes, sponsored by the Chinese embassy, to equip farmers with essential knowledge for large-scale production. We trained more than 1 000 farmers across the country.
We promoted value-addition by introducing products such as rabbit polony, sausages, burgers, samosas, biltong and rabbit pies, which enhanced market appeal and profitability.
MN: How has the association worked with government agencies and other stakeholders to address issues affecting the industry, such as disease outbreaks, feed availability, and market access?
RN: Zicorba has collaborated closely with the Veterinary Department to tackle disease outbreaks, including reporting cases, analysing samples and advocating for restrictions on rabbit imports to enhance biosecurity.
The association has also built partnerships with feed manufacturers, ensuring consistent supply and negotiating discounts for members. Additionally, Zicorba has fostered relationships with key processors and buyers such as Raymeg Holdings and explored export opportunities, particularly in high-demand markets, for instance, China.
MN: What are your thoughts on the potential for rabbit breeding to contribute to Zimbabwe’s food security and economic development goals?
RN: Rabbit farming holds immense potential for advancing food security and economic development in Zimbabwe. It is accessible, requiring minimal capital and labour and can be managed by vulnerable groups such as women, youths, the elderly and people living with disability.
Rabbit meat, being low in fat and cholesterol, supports healthy diets and reduces risks of chronic diseases. Our target is to improve the livelihoods of 1,8 million households in Zimbabwe through rabbit production over the next five years.
Furthermore, exporting rabbit products could generate foreign currency, contributing significantly to national economic growth.
MN: How has the industry been impacted by climate change and what strategies are breeders using to adapt to changing weather patterns?
RN: Climate change has had notable effects, including erratic weather patterns — shifts from extreme cold to heat — and unexplained rabbit deaths.
Breeders are adapting by enhancing housing designs for better temperature regulation and improving disease management protocols to mitigate these impacts.
MN: What role do you see technology playing in the future of rabbit breeding in Zimbabwe and are there any plans to introduce new technologies or innovations?
RN: Technology will play a critical role in advancing rabbit breeding through improved breeding techniques, disease management and market linkages.
Zicorba plans to explore innovations such as digital platforms for farmer training and record-keeping, as well as introducing advanced feed formulations and housing systems to enhance productivity.
We are also exploring the use of artificial insemination for rabbits to ramp up production and improve efficiencies.
MN: Looking ahead to 2025, what are your expectations for the industry and what opportunities or challenges do you anticipate?
RN: In 2025, we anticipate increased membership, expanded visibility for Zicorba and broader adoption of rabbit production through an out-grower programme.
Challenges may include economic pressures affecting farmers’ investments and subscription payments. However, the anticipated good rainy season could bolster confidence in the sector, encouraging growth and participation.
MN: How can the government and private sector support the growth and development of the rabbit breeding industry in Zimbabwe?
RN: The government can provide policy support, research funding and extension services to address challenges such as disease outbreaks and feed costs.
The private sector, on the other hand, can invest in processing facilities, value-addition and market linkages to ensure a robust and sustainable value-chain.
MN: What advice would you give to new or aspiring rabbit breeders looking to enter the industry in 2025?
RN: New breeders should invest in proper training and adopt commercial farming practices to maximise productivity and profitability. They should also join Zicorba to benefit from its support network, access improved breeds and tap into established markets.
MN: Are there any plans for the association to expand its membership or scope of activities in 2025 and what new initiatives or projects can we expect to see?
RN: Yes, Zicorba plans to embark on a countrywide outreach programme to reach more members and grow its footprint nationwide.
Additionally, the association will intensify efforts in value-addition, training programmes and market development to enhance the industry's competitiveness and appeal.
MN: What was the estimated profitability of the rabbit breeding sector in Zimbabwe in 2024 and how did this compare to previous years?
RN: The profitability of the rabbit breeding sector showed positive growth in 2024 due to value-addition and market diversification efforts.
However, the impacts of drought and feed cost increases slightly dampened profitability compared to prior years. These challenges underscored the need for resilience strategies within the industry.
MN: What percentage of Zimbabwe's GDP is estimated to have come from the rabbit breeding sector in 2024 and how does this contribution align with national economic development goals?
RN: While the rabbit breeding sector’s contribution to GDP remains modest, its growth trajectory aligns with Zimbabwe’s economic development goals, particularly in job creation, foreign currency generation and food security enhancement.
The sector’s potential is vast and warrants strategic investment for scaling its impact.