As the government attempts to create a sustainable economy propelled by private sector, prospective farmers on the other hand decry high level of prices for the supplement feeds.
The challenging situation played itself out at the just ended Ghanzi Agriculture Show as the region’s farmers complained of sky-rocketing prices with the likelihood to hamper the government efforts and livestock industry.
“Prices for animal feeds are killing us, particularly during winter and drought seasons,” said France Kanguaiko.
Normally, feeding his cattle and goats from the open veldt, Kanguaiko has since improvised to mitigate explosive prices.
And so are the rest of the farmers who participated at the Show.
He added: “We feed them with supplements only when preparing for these activities.”
A reputable event, Ghanzi Show attracts hordes of business people from different walks of life, especially the livestock farmers.
Rich with quality livestock particularly cattle, this year’s occasion did not disappoint.
Kanguaiko, a farmer at Okarui cattle-post near Charleshill, is a success story through the National Development Bank financial assistance.
He bought quality cattle, goats and sheep with the sponsorship.
Currently specializing in boer-goats and white dopper- sheep, Kanguaiko has participated in numerous Ghanzi Shows.
His senior goat for the first time clinched the Champions title in 2010 competition to be followed by the dopper breed sheep which repeated the same feat for the two consecutive years including the 2013 competition.
“I appreciate NDB service which, immediately after you knock at their door, you get some assistance,” said Kanguaiko, although complaining about high interest rates with the bank.
Besides good meat and milk, the Boer goat can give birth to four kids while the white dopper grows faster.
“Within three months it is ready for slaughter and sale,” Kanguaiko revealed.
Also present and participating at the Show were William Morowa and France Bimbo, both successful young farmers in Ghazi district.
“We could be doing more …but the animal feeds are just too expensive,” Morowa echoed same sentiments.
Starting with only 60 goats and sheep, he began breeding in 2001 and selling to other farmers.
He expanded his project in 2008, applying for a loan at NDB to buy Kalahari Redds and Boer goats.
So promising are the animals that he intends participating at Gaborone Trade Fair next year.
“All I wish to say is congratulations to NDB,” Morowa said.
He urged aspirant farmers not to undermine small stock projects as they are easy to manage with quick returns.
At the moment the farmers are not troubled by any disease.
“We do not operate from a remote control. We are always present at the cattle post to detect early signs of a disease,” Kanguaiko said.
