In Zimbabwe, rising demand for animal source foods driven by population growth, urbanization, and higher incomes has spurred livestock sector growth. However, production remains below potential due to feed and water shortages, disease, low productivity, and climate change. The sector is also a major source of GHG emissions, mainly methane from enteric fermentation and manure. 

Zimbabwe has prioritized adaptation in its NDCs but lacks livestock-specific GHG mitigation strategies. Existing policies show partial integration of livestock adaptation within agriculture and climate frameworks. A significant milestone was the 2023 development of a Tier 2 GHG inventory for cattle, providing a baseline for mitigation assessment and future NDC updates. Still, critical data gaps persist, especially in herd structure, feeding, and manure management, limiting mitigation planning. 

In the country climate-smart practices such as improved grazing, forage production, and livestock breeding are implemented but these are not formally assessed or included in national climate goals. More research is needed to build an evidence base for policy integration. 

This project aims to: 

• Strengthening policy alignment across sectors.  
• Conducting a comprehensive livestock census and improving data systems. 
• Enhancing stakeholder engagement and capacity building.  
• Expanding research and training to inform policy and secure climate finance. 

(Source of the text: Livestock climate action in Zimbabwe)