Litnet

Introduction

We are presently engaged in diverse agricultural operations in Maclear, located in the Eastern Cape. Our activities encompass livestock management, small stock rearing, wildlife management, poultry farming and crop cultivation.

In our livestock division, we manage both commercial and stud animals. Our operations include the breeding and care of Angus and Brangus stud cattle. In our small stock division, we manage both sheep and goats, and we proudly maintain a Boer goat stud, known for its excellent breeding stock and quality. We maintain a diverse range of wildlife on our farm, including species such as springbuck and buffalo.

Background

I began my journey in agriculture 25 years ago on a modest scale, with a few cows that my father generously entrusted to me. Through diligent trading – buying and selling cattle – I managed to raise the necessary funds gradually to expand my herd. I began working for a local farmer, and with the income I earned, I invested in hiring veld for my cattle to graze on. This strategic use of my salary allowed me to provide the necessary resources for my growing herd, ensuring they had ample space and nutrition to thrive. This methodical approach allowed me to grow my cattle population steadily and build a thriving operation from humble beginnings.

In 2006, I achieved a significant milestone by purchasing my first farm. Despite the challenges I faced in securing financing due to a lack of security and being considered high risk by banks, I persevered. The farm owner demonstrated remarkable generosity and faith in me by allowing me to pay off the farm directly to him over a period of six years. This opportunity was instrumental in allowing me to establish my agricultural venture and laid the foundation for its success.

The farm was purchased as a going concern and included cattle and a few old farming implements. After acquiring the farm, we began planting maize to provide nutritious feed for our cattle. Recognising the potential for further growth, we also made the strategic decision to invest in cash crops, diversifying our agricultural operations and enhancing the farm’s overall productivity. In 2009, we planted our first potato crops. As we started to grow and increase our maize crops, we decided to add value to the excess maize that was not used as feed, and began selling the surplus directly to the market.

In 2016, we expanded into the wildlife industry, entering the exotic and plains game market for both hunting and breeding purposes. In 2020, we introduced Brangus and Angus studs to enhance the value of our livestock further. In 2021, we ventured into the goat market, establishing our Boer goat stud to continue expanding and diversifying our agricultural portfolio. In 2023, we decided to add more value to our maize crops by investing in poultry. We established two laying houses, which provided an alternative market for our maize and offered a cost-effective substitute for fertiliser.

Future plans

We plan to increase our egg production facility further and add a rearing facility to support this growth. Additionally, we are expanding within the hunting industry, aiming to tap into the international market by offering comprehensive hunting packages and accommodation in our newly developed hunting cottage. To add further value to the laying facility, we are planning to set up a drying facility to dry and pelletise the chicken litter to create a more versatile and valuable product.