Eastern Cape: Eastern Cape Agriculture MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, has handed over 300 sheep, including rams and ewes, to local woolgrower associations in the OR Tambo District. This initiative is part of a broader effort to support farmers still recovering from the recent devastating veld fires that affected the district.
According to South African Government News Agency, the initiative is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to boost wool production and improve livestock genetics within the province. It underscores the provincial government’s ongoing commitment to revitalising wool production and addresses challenges faced by farmers, including poor quality genetic material and low growth rates that hinder farmers’ access to formal markets.
The department reported that the Eastern Cape produces approximately 11.3 million kilograms of wool annually, with five million kilograms coming from black communal farmers. After the official sheep handover, Kontsiwe mentioned that the programme will also improve the quality of the wool clip to meet international standards.
‘The department’s broader strategy focuses on several key areas, including enhancing livestock genetics through the Livestock Production Improvement Scheme to improve wool quality; promoting inclusivity by encouraging participation of youth, people with disabilities, and military veterans; linking farmers with industry stakeholders for market access; providing targeted training and mentorship, especially for youth, women, and people with disabilities; and reducing sheep scab incidence through increased awareness campaigns,’ Kontsiwe said.
The MEC added that in the 2024/25 financial year, the department procured 1,191 sheep including the Dorper, Merino, and Dohne Merino breeds, at a cost of R5.2 million, with OR Tambo District receiving 389 rams and 270 ewes. She also noted that 809 rams will be distributed throughout the province.
Masibhozo Yilo of Zilandana village in Qumbu, who lost nearly 100 sheep, expressed his gratitude after receiving six Dohne Merino rams to rebuild and improve the genetic quality of his flock. “After the fire, I was devastated. I felt like I had lost everything… but receiving these rams has given me hope again. Government officials were here immediately after the incident. I am so grateful for their help. I am even planning a thanksgiving ceremony to express my gratitude to God for this blessing,” said an elated Yilo.
Another beneficiary, Nokhanya Ntshobothi from Mbinja village in Tsolo, said she was overjoyed for the sheep she received. A widow who survives by selling sheep and wool, Ntshobothi said the investment by the department into her farming enterprise will significantly improve the genetic quality of her flock.