In a move to support local farmers and boost wool production, Eastern Cape Agriculture handed over 300 sheep, consisting of rams and ewes, to woolgrowers associations in the OR Tambo District.
The handover was part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to improve livestock genetics and address challenges faced by farmers, such as poor-quality genetic material and low growth rates. The initiative also provided ongoing support to farmers affected by recent veld fires, including Masibhozo Yilo, who lost nearly 100 sheep in a devastating fire.
Yilo received six Dohne Merino rams to rebuild and improve the genetic quality of his flock, a boost following earlier support from MEC Kontsiwe and businessman Ace Ncobo. “Receiving these rams has given me hope again,” Yilo said, expressing his gratitude for the assistance.
The Department procured 1191 sheep at a cost of R5.2 million in the 2024/25 financial year, with the OR Tambo District receiving 389 rams and 270 ewes. Province-wide, the Department will distribute 809 rams.
The initiative is expected to improve the quality of wool production in the Eastern Cape, which produces approximately 11.3 million kg of wool annually, with 5 million kg coming from black communal farmers.
