- Official Handing Over of Sheep Shearing Shed: The Alfred Nzo Development Agency and the Alfred Nzo District Municipality officially handed over a sheep shearing shed to the Lukholo Wool Growers to enhance sheep farming efficiency and animal welfare.
- Design and Purpose of the Shearing Sheds: The sheds are designed to provide comfort, safety, and efficiency during sheep shearing, reduce stress on animals, and support increased wool production and productivity.
- Sheep Farming Program and Selection of Farmers: A three-year sheep farming program was launched following a call by ANDA, with applications closing in December 2022; four Wool Growers Associations were selected, and three sheds have been built so far.
The Alfred Nzo Development Agency (ANDA), in partnership with the Alfred Nzo District Municipality (ANDM), has officially handed over a Sheep Shearing Shed to the Lukholo Wool Growers in Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Local Municipality. The programme was led by Councillor Qwayede, Councillor Mantshongo and Councillor Lebenya.
The sheds are designed to ensure comfort, safety, and efficiency during sheep shearing, while reducing stress on the animals and making handling easier. They also aim to boost productivity and support quality wool production.
The initiative follows a call by ANDA for qualifying farmers to join a three-year sheep farming programme. Applications closed on 6 December 2022 after being advertised through local media, websites, and notice boards. Four Wool Growers Associations were selected, and three shearing sheds have already been built.
Speaking at the event, ANDA Board Chairperson Mrs. Ntombile Mabude said the new structure represents dignity for farmers and potential job opportunities, adding that it will also contribute to the growth of the District’s economy.
The Lukholo Wool Growers produced 45 bales of wool this year and employ 24 workers, of which 16 are women and 8 are men. Busan Korea Biotechnology (BKB) further supported the association with a donation of 14 rams.
Stakeholders present included BKB, the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA), the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Oxfam, and traditional leaders. Additional Sheep Shearing Shed handovers will take place across Alfred Nzo District this week.
