How Voermol’s SS200 supports Kwanda Biyela’s goats

In KwaZulu-Natal, Kwanda Biyela’s herd thrives thanks to Voermol’s SS200. Without it, his goats would not be fat, shiny, and thriving.

In the rolling landscapes of Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, Kwanda Biyela is quietly building a legacy. As the founder of Ukwanda Agri Business, Biyela started his journey in 2022 with just two goats. Today, he has a strong herd of hardy local breeds like Cape Speckled (Skilder) and Xhosa Lob Ear, chosen for their resilience, rapid growth, and ability to bear twins.

However, sustaining growth in goats, especially through KwaZulu-Natal’s dry winters, requires more than passion. It demands the right nutrition.

To meet these needs, Biyela relies on Voermol’s SS200, along with Super 18 and liquid molasses. Together, they form the backbone of his supplement feeding programme.

“SS200 with Super 18 helps us a lot in winter,” Biyela explains. “The SS200 and Super 18 with calf meal and rough salt help us a lot in feeding our animals as a supplement.”

The salt, he says, promotes water intake, aiding hydration, while the SS200 and Super 18 supply essential minerals and nutrients that support growth, weight gain, and overall animal health.

Biyela started using SS200 on his farm in 2022, but his first exposure to the product goes back to 2018 during his in-service training at the farm of his former mentor, Jansen van Rensburg.

“I started seeing results within 30 to 45 days after using the product. It helped a lot. Their feed intake increased, their body condition scores improved, and none of the animals were showing ribs anymore,” he says.

“I give Super 18 to my ewes six weeks before mating season so that they get the required energy. I also continue giving them Super 18 for about three weeks after birth.

“The products have had a massive impact on my farming business; my goats are always shining, and they always have the energy to graze around,” he says.

Flash feeding for fast-growing weaners

Alongside supplements, Biyela follows a flash feeding system for his weaners. This, he says, ensures young animals reach optimal body condition quickly, giving rams a strong foundation for fertility and sustaining kids.

“Our animals gain weight. Improvement is there and massive also,” he says. “In terms of growing, our kids show that we’re feeding them. They grow so fast, and it shows that mothers are well taken care of. Body condition score is always in good condition.”

According to Biyela, the results are visible not only in the animals’ bodies, but also in their behaviour. “Our animals never forget feeding time, especially sheep; they remind you by their big voices,” he laughs.

Fat, shiny, and thriving

The transformation has been undeniable. Biyela beams with pride when describing the consistent condition of his herd.

“Our animals never go slim. They are always fat and shiny. The prices match the quality and results of the products, and also the lifespan of the product is way much better if stored well.”

For Biyela, feeding well is about more than just immediate growth; it is part of a much bigger vision. His focus on quality nutrition, careful management, and long-term planning ensures that Ukwanda Agri Business isn’t just surviving today but preparing for tomorrow.

As he puts it: “We don’t see these challenges as setbacks – our efforts today are building something for the next generation.”