A rural cattle farmer at Epukiro RC mission area in the Omaheke Region is turning challenges into opportunities by venturing into pig farming. 

Prolonged droughts have devastated traditional livestock farming in the area, but this farmer's inspiring story shows that diversifying agricultural practices can bring new life to rural economies.

For years, Silas Sebetwane, a farm owner, has struggled against the effects of recurring drought spells, which have diminished cattle farming returns. 

But in April 2023, he took a bold step, starting a pig farming project with just sixteen piglets. 

Today, that number has grown to an impressive 134.

Maria Boois is the farm manager and has played a crucial part in bringing this project to light.

"We started April 2023 with this project with six piglets and two adult pigs. In November of the same year, the pigs reproduced, and the numbers increased," she said.

While the project shows enormous potential, it's not without its challenges. 

Sebetwane is pleading for support to upgrade its structures and meet certification standards required to sell to retail shops, butcheries, and schools.

"Currently we have 134 pigs at this place. I recently slaughtered and sold to local people. We are not yet selling commercially. We first want to upgrade the structure so that we can sell to Meatco and other shops."

Despite the challenges, Sebatwane and his team are optimistic. 

Their long-term plan is to develop a self-sustaining system that combines pig farming with crop production to overcome feeding costs, as the future is promising.

"Pig farming demands more input, as it can dig deeper into your pockets. In the long term, you can get good returns. From my side, I see a better future with this project."

With the support of any kind, Sebatwane's resilience and innovation serve as an inspiration for farmers across the region who are looking forward to adapting to the harsh realities of climate change.