15 Sep 2019

Small stock farmers have been advised to incorporate the use of appropriate technology to improve production and curb consequences of global warming.

Chairperson of Jwaneng chamber of commerce, Mr Julius Sebako, said this during launch of Capri and Ovine Association in Jwaneng on Setember 14.

He said the association came at the right time when there was a need to develop agriculture and reduce over-reliance on diamonds. 

He also implored farmers to make use of government initiatives meant to help them increase production.

He said such programmes included ISPAAD and LIMID through which farmers could be assisted with borehole drilling, water reticulation to kraals, fodder production as well as stock breeding.

Mr Sebako also noted that cooperatives and farmers associations were appropriate within the context of the present circumstances such as climate change that threatened food security.

Small stock officer for the district, Mr Aubrey Thupe informed farmers that the ministry was always available and willing to assist farmers as indicated by the availability of small stock officers in all regions.

He said the assistance was in the form of providing training and general information on the inquiry and urged farmers to always contact such officers if they needed any help. 

Mr Thupe said government had shown commitment to improving small stock production by resuscitating small stock ranches such as Lobu farm in Kgalagadi District.

He, therefore, advised farmers to always buy improved breeds to develop their stock. 

One of the farmers, Mr Major Mabayane, said they were satisfied with the local small stock market.

He said it was impossible for individuals to go far at school, and that the small stock sector was available for those who did not go far to make a decent living from.

For his part, Jwaneng deputy district commissioner, Mr Lesang Kgomoetsile, said the looming challenges of food security could only be addressed by people, while government could provide support.

A member of the Capri and Ovine Association, Ms Tolani Taele, said they found it fit to form the association so that it could be the mouthpiece of farmers in the region.

She said their aim was to pull farmers from all corners of the country in order to commercialise goat and sheep farming. Ms Taele also appreciated the government’s effort in coming up with various programmes to fight poverty and unemployment as well as boost the economy. ENDS