25-year-old Alude Mfeketho agribusiness idea scores second place after she presented and was awarded R20 000 funding to pursue her egg production business by the Department of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform competition held in Jeffreys Bay.
Mfeketho aims to produce an estimated amount of 8 400 eggs weekly. She says the idea was born after she had conducted an environmental scan and concluded that there is a market gap in her Mgxabakazi village, Port st John’s.
She is equipped with skills, knowledge and also holds a Bachelor of Agriculture Economics from the University of Fort Hare. She is currently on an internship program with the department in Mthatha.
She says she was approached by her manager and took it upon her to pursue her business idea.
I want to create sustainable employment opportunities as my long term goal and eradicate poverty in our communities ensuring that we establish food security. – said Mfeketho
When her business kicks off she plans to employ two individuals who will assist in running the egg farm. She aims to attract and retain skilled individuals as her business will grow and expand in the future.
“I plan to create inclusivity for collaborations and support with the local municipality and the traditional leaders to help secure land in order to start the business as soon as possible.” said Mfeketho
Living in these challenged economic times, I advise young people to seek opportunities to create self-established businesses to help eradicate unemployment. The information regarding opening an establishment is readily available through social media and other search engines when seeking funding. – she said
She says she advises individuals to think ahead, be creative and monetise their qualifications.
