Qumbu farmers benefit from Mdeni feedlot
The massive investment by the Eastern Cape department of rural development and agrarian reform (DRDAR) in the construction of a custom feedlot in Mdeni Village outside Qumbu is proving to be of great benefit to livestock farmers and owners in the Mhlontlo local municipality.
The facility, which was built in the 2017/18 financial year, aids livestock owners in the fattening of their cattle in preparation for market. The R2-million facility near Sulenkama has brought much relief to farmers in the area, many of whom had suffered huge livestock losses due to the drought and raging veld fires. From December to date, the feedlot has already sold 33 cattle to abattoirs, yielding much-needed revenue for farmers and livestock owners.
Sinalo Sigwasele, an animal field officer at the feedlot with a qualification in extension advisory services, is employed at the facility. She said the feedlot had helped many villagers in Qumbu improve the quality of their livestock.
When the feedlot was first launched, farmers paid R850 to fatten their cattle for 120 days. The amount has slightly increased to R1, 200. Sigwasele said some farmers even took their cattle before the 120 day-period ended, so impressive was their condition. The DRDAR assists the feedlot with feed and medication.
“The feedlot has not only helped Qumbu residents by improving the condition of their livestock but has also given the youth employment opportunities because they assist in looking after and feeding livestock,” Sigwasele said.
The feedlot also hosts regular market days for farmers to sell their livestock to local abattoirs. Another employee, Lwandile Nongcwawula, who has been working at the feedlot from the outset, said: “I have learnt so many things about animals, such as how to look after them, be able to identify if anything is wrong and how to maintain a good standard.
“The people of Mdeni and the rest of Qumbu appreciate everything that the department has done and continues to do in contributing to the feed of the animals staying in the feedlot for improvement.”
“The people of Mdeni and the rest of Qumbu appreciate everything that the department has done and continues to do in contributing to the feed of the animals staying in the feedlot for improvement.