For most teenagers, matric is tough enough, but for Owethu Siswana, it’s just one of many responsibilities. Every day, in the quiet moments before sunrise, Siswana is already hard at work on his pig farming venture.
Despite his young age, this 18-year-old is already investing in his pig farming future, managing a successful piggery business in Qonce (formerly King William’s Town), Eastern Cape. His journey began with his grandfather, whose guidance and wisdom sparked his interest in farming.
“My grandfather was a hardworking farmer who dedicated his life to providing for our family. He taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and caring for the land.
Siswana’s business, Keneggs Piggery started in 2022 and is home to nine pigs and eight piglets. “We’re currently farming with a mix of breeds, focusing on producing high-quality pork products,” he explains.
His stock includes three sows, two boars, one bull, and three young pigs. Focused on producing high-quality pork, he sources feed from local suppliers in Qonce.
Learning through experience
Siswana doesn’t do it alone. His grandmother, Nomvuselelo Kenene, provides vital financial support, and he’s always on the lookout for government funding opportunities to help him grow.
Despite not having formal agricultural training, he’s gained hands-on experience through trial and error, using his family’s farm as a practical learning ground.
Siswana’s target market is primarily local consumers who seek sustainably sourced pork. “We build our clientele through word of mouth, social media, and participating in local events,” he says.
Siswana’s dedication is clear, but so are the challenges he faces. Managing his piggery while keeping up with his matric studies isn’t easy, especially with soaring feed costs and limited resources.
To navigate these challenges, he has sought guidance from an experienced local farmer who has mentored him on best practices, sourcing quality piglets, and managing his business efficiently.
Additionally, he has applied for funding from a local agricultural organisation that offers grants to young farmers. “I’m still waiting to hear back from them, but I’m hopeful that I’ll receive the funding to help expand my business,” he says.
A teenager’s big pig farming ambitions
Growing up on his grandfather’s farm, Siswana remains inspired by his early experiences.
“By carrying on his legacy, I want to honour his memory and continue his work in agriculture. I also hope to make him proud and show that his efforts have not gone in vain,” Siswana shares.
This young farmer has big ambitions for the future. He’s determined to pursue tertiary education in agricultural economics or a related field, confident that it will give him the knowledge and skills to grow and manage his piggery business more effectively.
At the same time, his piggery remains a top priority. He envisions supplying high-quality pig products to local shops, setting a new standard for excellence in his community, and establishing Kennegs Piggery as a leading pig farming brand in the Eastern Cape and beyond.
For aspiring farmers, Siswana offers valuable advice: “Start small, be patient, and stay committed to your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek guidance from experienced farmers. Keep learning, emphasise sustainability, and most importantly, believe in yourself and your abilities.”
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