The Chairperson of the Okatumba Agricultural Shows Society, Kamakotje Marenga, has hailed communal farmers for keeping quality livestock and the dedication shown towards the agricultural sector.
Marenga made this remark during the annual Okatumba Agricultural Show held at Okatumba Gate in the Otjombinde constituency. Marenga pointed out that despite various challenges that hinder farmers in the communal areas, such as limited water and poisonous plants, farmers have shown resilience as they keep on producing quality livestock.
“The biggest challenge is the infrastructure. I believe we do need support, as we are a fledging cooperative and a society. So we do believe if we gain support in terms of infrastructure for our area in Eiseb. We will be able to host expos which are at scale of which can accommodate enough livestock and SMEs and host an event of a bigger magnitude.”
Marenga added that the show society has strengthened this year's event by adding a farmers information day for capacity building.
A local livestock expert, Barend Dorfling, highlighted that farmers need to know which breed is best, depending on their grazing areas, as this helps them know how to improve on quality. Dorfling encouraged farmers to always partake in farmers information days if they want to better their agricultural inputs.
“You see, quality breeds quality, and if you buy a bull and you have bulls like this, don't spare on the prices because you will get your money back. So don't try to buy second-hand bulls in the bush; go and buy the best bull. If you want to go further in life and improve your quality, buy quality bulls, as it will bring quality calves. If you can do that, then you can prosper in the future."
A local farmer, Wole Mbaisa, said that the Okatumba shows society has done expectational work by organising such an event, which remains one of the key platforms where farmers exchange ideas and reconnect with others.
“We are so delighted to have this day, especially with an expert on Brahman cattle, and, more importantly, to learn about the differences between breeds and how to select the best bulls.”
Another farmer, Mbenovandu Murangi, also emphasised that agriculture has evolved; hence, it is important for communal farmers to partake in farmers' information day to keep up with world markets.
“As a community, to come together even before auctions interact, discuss the issues, discuss vision, as we do, you want to take the animals ahead, and that is basically missing all types of things and even general discussions on what we are doing as far as the community concerns are, as were do you want us to drive our farming to?"