Ten Bonsmara bulls donated to female farmers in North West
A group of female farmers in North West was given 10 Bonsmara bulls by the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Ten young farmers have proven commitment and perseverance to their livestock business and were given these bulls to further improve their livestock.
Speaking during the handing over of bulls earlier today in Armoedsvlakte Livestock Breeding Centre outside Vryburg town, MEC Desbo Mohono said the program is one of many by her department aimed at ensuring that emerging farmers become successful commercial farmers and actively contribute to food security in the province.
ALSO READ: Watch: Female farmer gives cellphone thief the beating of his life
“We are all aware that our women in the sector lack behind in many aspects that is why we do not compromise when giving them these animals to improve their herd. We are also aware that bulls are quite exorbitant in the market and our women cannot afford that. It is for this reason that today we are giving our women these animals.”
She added that each and every bull donated to female farmers by the department has DNA history and most importantly its performance score.
“Their bloodlines and the way in which bloodlines work in harmony are very important factors that were considered when selecting them. I hope today’s gesture will re-energise all of these 10 chosen women farmers towards building their brand in farming and to really improve a notch further by becoming possible stud breeders in the near future. We want them to get off the ground because we are in a bid to ensure food security.”
“The Department has placed livestock improvement as part of its priority programmes, taking note that amongst others, the beef cattle production is a vehicle that has the potential to contribute to the development of North West Province’s populace by enhancing food security, job creation, reducing poverty, and ultimately improving the quality of life of the communities in a sustainable manner.”
Mohono said earlier this year made a plea to young people in the province to embrace and love agriculture.
“The Department will identify young people who are passionate to give these bulls to because we
need results.
“We need to see livestock improve in the Province and open opportunities for better markets,” she
said.
According to national livestock statistics (DAFF, Feb 2018) the province has 1 588 147 cattle, including beef and dairy (13% of the national herd).
ALSO READ: Family of five found butchered on farm outside Harrismith
No comments: