Zimbabwe is facing a severe drought induced by El Niño, leading to dire consequences for rural communities. Farmers are forced to sell their livestock, including cattle and goats, at significantly reduced prices due to disrupted rainfall patterns and drier conditions that threaten food security. This situation is exacerbated by high transportation costs and exploitation by middlemen, further diminishing farmers' earnings. Additionally, the drought has devastated the cotton crop, leaving rural households struggling to meet basic needs. In response, the Competition and Tariff Commission (CTC) is addressing potential anti-competitive practices in the agriculture sector, while the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development advises farmers to destock non-productive animals to mitigate drought losses and finance necessary measures for survival. This strategy aims to preserve productive animals and support farmers' livelihoods during these challenging times.