Zebaldt Ngaruka

The chairperson of the Otjimati Mini Agricultural Show, Charles Kukaurua Tjaronda, described the recent agricultural event as a resounding success and one that accorded farmers an opportunity to showcase their animals and exchange notes with their peers.

Held from 3 to 6 July in Omaheke region’s Epukiro constituency, the show focused on small stock and heifers, which all competed in various breed categories. 

Speaking to Agri Today, Tjaronda said everything went as planned, as local farmers brought top-quality products to the event and received their deserved accolades. 

He added that farmers used the platform as preparation for bigger agricultural competitions in the country, particularly those lined up in the region. 

“It was a joyful occasion, as our farmers showed up in big numbers, especially the emerging farmers. The farmers brought quality livestock and learned a lot from the show,” he said.

About 40 cattle took part in the event, while 18 goats and 84 sheep participated in the show, which was well-received by the community. 

Not only was the focus on the animals on display, but emphasis was also put on educating farmers about the various modern techniques in the industry. 

“Farmers benefited from the information-sharing session under the auspices of Feedmasters expert Frank Kanguatjivi. Amongst others, farmers were taught lessons on animal vaccination, fodder and the importance of storing feeds to be used during difficult periods. The importance of gardening to farmers was also touched on, as gardens are increasingly becoming important to livestock feeding during the drought period. This was an important topic, as most farmers in the area only think that gardens are for human consumption, forgetting that livestock feed may come from the same garden,” shared Tjaronda.

Despite the success of the event, the chairperson highlighted some shortcomings with regard to hosting the show.

He said the lack of sponsorship is one of the key challenges, citing that events of this nature require funding. 

“This is the starting point for communal farmers to market and showcase what they produce. Farming in the rural areas is a challenge, and farmers need motivation in terms of funding. We try from our pockets to pay the winners in various categories,” he added.

Winners

I the sheep category, the Ondoka Stud Farming’s Van Rooi ram scooped both the breed and interbreed categories, while their Kalahari Red ewe took the same accolades in the goats’ category.

Kaurihongua Murangi, Pellee Hoveka, Tjiu Kaunatjike, Uaoronganisa Mujoro and Kauetu Murangi also received awards in various sheep categories. 

John Kavetjiua Kavari’s young Simbra bull took the breed and show awards, whereas in the Brahman category Kakunanganda Korupanda of the Okanene Brahman was crowned as the breed champion after his female calf emerged as the winner. 

The Brahman male calf cup went to Mutjimba Korupanda from Kalahari Range in the vicinity of Otumbonde. 

Sharing his excitement, Nokokure Katjirua from neighbouring Ozombouvapa village said he was happy with his participation in the mini show. 

“It was a great experience for me even though my calf came second. I’m positive about other upcoming events. I will polish my calf for them. I learned a lot. I’m going to put more emphasis on what the judges told me during the show,” said Katjirua. 

– zngaruka@yahoo.com