North West agriculture, rural development and land reform MEC Desbo Mohono transferred a cutting-edge cattle system to Regomoditswe Malao, an esteemed Boran stud breeder from Boschkop in Ventersdorp. This system, designed to monitor and analyse the performance and health of cattle through eartag tracing, represents a groundbreaking advancement in livestock management.
By collecting data such as weight, breeding history, and age, the associated computer application creates a comprehensive database, facilitating informed decision-making for farmers regarding their livestock management.
Projects will boost NW agriculture
Malao also received 25 pregnant Boran cattle, a cattle weight scale, manure spreader, feed mixer, four-row planter, a handling facility that can accommodate 100 cattle, sighting and the drilling of a borehole through the comprehensive agricultural support programme (Casp).
Thrilled with the immense support the department provided, Maloa said he appreciated the department’s extension and advisory services.
“We have walked this long journey together and everyone was patient despite the challenges we faced. We are here to witness the exceptional efforts that were put into this project without fail,” Malao said.
Furthermore, the department also handed over resources to the Thekiso Aquaculture Project, operated by three beneficiaries. This project, equipped with seven ponds and a fully functional solar system, aims to cultivate Nile Tilapia fish.
Kenalemang Thekiso highlighted the project’s potential to meet the high demand for tilapia in the market, facilitated by the increased production capacity provided by the new ponds.
“Now that we have ponds that house 1 000 fish each, we will be able to expand our market as the fish is in high demand. It takes approximately six months for the fish to grow, meaning we will have to grow the fish in phases so that we have constant supply for the ever-growing market,” Thekiso said.
Mohono concluded the handover by urging both Malao and Thekiso to collaborate with other agripreneurs for sustainable growth. Emphasising the importance of technology in modern agriculture, Mohono encouraged farmers to invest in tools that streamline data collection and analysis.
“We have demonstrated with the Malao Boran and Thekiso project that technology is reshaping the future of agriculture and making farms more efficient.
“Smart farming should be prioritised by our black farmers and we commit as a department to continue supporting those that show dedication and potential to become commercial and mega farmers,” Mohono said.
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