Zebaldt Ngaruka

Local farmers used recent agricultural expos across the Omaheke region to express and showcase their appreciation for the Brahman cattle.

They hailed the breed’s heat tolerance, hardiness, calving ability and durability as the perfect fit for extensive farming systems.

The breed is well-suited for Namibian conditions due to its longevity and foraging skills, which make it a popular choice for the country’s beef producers.

AgriToday caught up with a few breed farmers, who shared their experience with the breed and why they regard it as one of the best cattle breeds to farm with.

Renowned farmer Vasana Ndjavera (58) from Ovinjuru village said the Brahman cattle’s vital character is its adaptability.

He added that the breed is unique and easy to domesticate.

“If you wholeheartedly farm with the Brahman cattle, you will realise the love the cattle will share with the owner. I realised that I love the red Brahmans more than the white ones. I bought six heifers from another farmer, Chris Nguapia, and a young bull from my peer, Katjinduu Tjahuha. That is basically how we started with our breed,” Ndjavera shared.

He noted that the breed is excellent for diversification, as he farms with the intention of  producing and selling young bulls to upcoming farmers at reasonable prices.

Besides being a top breeder, Ndjavera has yet to register his cattle with any association.

He said he is not convinced as to why he should register as a breeder.

“That was not my intention, and that is an idea that I will not buy at all. Our vision and theirs are different. We are farming to assist other farmers in both communal and commercial setups who cannot buy cattle at national auctions. I have met my expectations in terms of money from this project. I am happy so far,” he said.

Epukiro-based Brahman stud breeder Mutjimba Korupanda from Kalahari Range in the Omaheke region said that despite the adaptability, the breed is good for cross-breeding with other breeds.

“This is a very unique breed that will add value to your pocket. It fits in any environment and is one of the drought-resistant breeds we have in Namibia. The Brahman cows can fight against wild animals to protect their calves. That is great in an area where wild animals are always roaming,” he said.

Another feature of the Brahman cattle is their skin, which, according to Korupanda, is hard and resistant to parasites such as ticks.

The farmer is a registered stud breeder with the Brahman Stud Breeders Association in Namibia, a position he has held since joining the association in 2002.

He purchased his first cattle from Jappie Coetzee in 2001, consisting of a pregnant cow and a bull.

After registering with the Brahman Stud Breeders Association, Korupanda reinforced his breed by purchasing cattle from Mass Brahmans in Khomas Hoogland between 2004 and 2005.

Korupanda’s cattle have won many accolades at various agricultural shows, including at the Gobabis and Windhoek Shows.

“We recently won major awards at the Otjinene and Epukiro exhibition events. Our cow was the champion of champions in Otjinene, while our young bulls and calves scooped top honours in Epukiro,” he added.

He advised young farmers to consider quality in their products.

“Of course, quantity is important, but don’t leave behind quality. Quality will take you far. You must invest in quality animals as far as you can,” he guided.

Meanwhile, Eiseb Block’s upcoming farmer Gaddafi Rikondja Marenga (37) said the Brahman is a hardy breed with a high fertility rate.

He said the breed is strong due to its ability to walk long distances.

In addition, it can withstand drought seasons.

However, Marenga does not doubt its weight.

He preferred a crossbreed of it with the Simmentaler.

“We are farming for economic reasons. Of course, one has to focus on the positive side of the pocket. We learned from our forebearers. We will go far with this breed,” said Marenga.

-zngaruka@yahoo.com