A shearing shed delivered by government is set to improve the lives of wool growers of the Bomvini community in the Eastern Cape.
The provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) unveiled the R1.3 million multi-purpose investment to the community on Tuesday. The shed is part of ongoing programmes to build suitable agricultural infrastructure in rural communities.
It is also part of the provincial government’s commitment to provide proper infrastructure and equipment to emerging farmers.
The wool farmers were previously using rondavels with no equipment to shed their sheep and their wool was contaminated.
The project started in 2012 with the aim to produce high quality wool, control livestock disease, create jobs particularly for the youth and women, as well as fighting poverty.
At least 12 people were employed during the construction of the shed, while others were casually employed during the shearing season.
The project produced 15 bales of wool and sells to BKB (a company that provides agricultural products), where the association received R87045.40 in the last shearing season.
Ntabankulu Woolgrowers Association Chairperson, Bonakele Mfusi expressed his appreciation to the department for responding to their request for the construction of a shearing shed.
“We want to thank DRDAR, who after hearing about the harsh conditions we worked under, responded to our request for a shed. When it is raining our wool was affected because the place where it was kept was leaking.
“This shearing shed and equipment will change our lives because there is money in sheep farming. I would also like to urge other wool farmers to work together and form an association to make it easier for government to intervene and offer a helping hand,” Mfusi said.
Alfred Nzo District Municipality Mayor, Vukile Mhlelembana, said the provision of a fenced shed with a dipping tank, water harvesting tanks, equipment such as sorting tables, scissors and pressers, will promote the development of the local economy and enhance the quality of wool.
The Mayor was speaking on behalf of the DRDAR MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe during the hand over ceremony held in Ntabankulu.
“As part of the genetic improvement programme, the department has provided two Dohne Merino rams, provided disease control through vaccination, dosing and dipping,” Mhlelembana explained. - SAnews.gov.za
