A goat rotation project in Mpezo village in the Kavango West Region has transformed the lives of four beneficiaries, who now own livestock and skills they never imagined they would have.

In 2023, Johana Kazana and Elisabeth Likiwa received 10 goats from the regional council under a rotation agreement. 

According to the agreement, the regional council would collect 10 goats after three years to pass on to the next group. 

The remaining livestock will remain with the initial beneficiaries, who were encouraged to continue with their farming projects as individuals.

The main objective of the project is to uplift community members, help them improve their livelihoods, and reduce unemployment and poverty in the region.

"At the beginning of the project we faced challenges. The goats were attacked by diseases, and some died. We then came up with a plan of contributing money for medication. Our chairperson had knowledge of medication and injection of the goats. From there on, we injected the goats and bought medication. Last year when they came to collect their goats and the remainder, we divided them; each one got 16. Personally, since I got these goats, my life has improved. I sold some goats in December, and in January I sent my kids to school with ease. This is a very important project if one takes it seriously and buys medicine for the goats. When my goats multiply, I am going to exchange them for a cow," says Kazana. 

Kazana said that they will contribute N$20 per month in case a need arises to buy vaccines.

In December last year the council collected its share of 20 goats out of 84, and the remaining 64 goats were divided equally among the four beneficiaries; each member received 16 goats.

Despite the challenges, the beneficiaries stated that they have gained valuable knowledge, and they now have livestock they had not imagined owning before.

"I am encouraging youth who have not taken interest in any project, even this one's for the goats, to not be discouraged; just apply. Like, this goat project has brought me joy. At least now even if I have a problem, I will not stress or bother others. I know what I have and what to do to solve my problems," adds Likuwa. 

The Kavango West Regional Council implemented goat projects under the Food Security and Nutrition Programme from the 2016/17 to the 2024/2025 financial years.
A total number of 126 projects were supported with goats during this period.