Herding 4 Health is a fantastic community-led programme that addresses the challenges faced by farmers living in and next to protected areas. In the Simalaha Community Conservancy in Zambia, Peace Parks Foundation, in partnership with Conservation International, is currently overseeing a combined herd deworming and vaccination programme. This programme is critical for safeguarding cattle from diseases and improving their health.
The process of combined herding involves bringing together livestock from different households to enhance pasture management, disease control, and community support. This approach is highly effective in optimising resources for conducting deworming and vaccination.
Combined herd deworming and vaccination are crucial aspects of the Herding 4 Health programme. It promotes sustainable livestock management while also improving the well-being of local farmers. In this video, Kabika Kumoyo, Peace Parks’ Community Development Manager, on the ground in Mapani, showcases a combined herd deworming and vaccination. Deworming and vaccinating 350 cattle is no small task, involving setting up a temporary crush pen to usher the cattle through one by one for their veterinary treatment and then herding them safely into a temporary boma.
At the Peace Parks Foundation, we believe that this method of herd management is a game-changer for achieving conservation outcomes by working with and empowering local farmers. We are excited to continue supporting combined herding and contribute to the positive impact it has on livestock management and the overall health of communities within the Simalaha Community Conservancy.
