Press Releases

October 26, 2007. Lusaka

U.S. Government Program Promotes Healthier Cattle, Wealthier Farmers

Lusaka - Zambia’s private sector needs to play a significant role in agriculture in order to serve the interests of Zambians.  Mr. Michael Koplovsky, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Zambia, today visited Vetlab, the only private laboratory in Zambia that provides veterinary services for Zambian cattle.

A five-year, $17 million program funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by the Production Finance and Improved Technology Project (PROFIT) helps smallholder cattle owners maintain healthy animals by providing them access to private veterinary services. 

PROFIT’s establishment of private veterinary services is just one step towards achieving broader industry competitiveness.  Although Vetlab was only launched in April, 2007, it has already established a solid record. According to a recent analysis, farmers using private veterinary services experienced an estimated 48% decline in livestock disease and a 70% reduction in cattle death. 

Vetlab has increased Zambian capacity to act quickly to diagnose and treat sick cattle.  The establishment of Vetlab has already resulted in 40% lower costs for key diagnostic tests and 75% less waiting time for cattle farmers.

"Clearly, by making it easier for farmers to seek treatment, the U.S. Government is helping husband and sustain livestock—the bottom line is increased profits for the farmers,” Mr. Koplovsky said.
# # #