31 Aug 2014

Farming, unlike most industries, is a vocation that requires commitment, tenacity and perseverance, the agriculture show committee chairperson, Ms Gaokgakala Rammidi has said.

Welcoming guests at the national agriculture show prize giving ceremony on August 28, Ms Rammidi said farming was an industry where the serious individuals prevailed.

She said while the public had visited stalls to feast their eyes and learn what no book would provide, that should serve as an inspiration for them to individually and collectively make an audit and start contributing to farming industry.

She further implored farmers to continue the wonderful work of sharing their experiences with others. “I believe you all understand that exhibition is not about receiving awards in the form of prizes, it is to a larger extent about devoting your efforts and resources to orientate the aspiring and struggling farmers, and this is more rewarding and fulfilling,” she said.

Various farmers were awarded prizes in different categories which included among others, fruits, vegetables, crops and livestock.

Mr Thapelo Setlalekgosi from Mookane in the Central District emerged the grand champion of the yard in the cattle farming category with his Simmental cow. He got a trophy, medal and P13 000.00.

In an interview, Mr Setlalekgosi said for one to be a farmer, more especially in cattle, they must have passion and love for them.

He said he grew up in cattle farming and his business of cattle farming was commercialised in 2009.He further stated that it was the first time he won thus a big achievement for him.

However, he lamented financial problems as well as natural disasters such as drought as a challenge in his farming business. ENDS