Ishmael Mohaola, in his late 40’s from Sehlabathebe in Qacha’s Neck, was among farmers who walked away with rams worth M10,000 among other prizes from the National Small Stock Show 2019. There were also other farmers who won rams worth M5,000.00. Mohaola produces rams for other farmers.
business
May 30, 2019
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Prizes galore for sheep farmers
Wool and mohair
This seasoned farmer said he ventured into the business of keeping livestock back in 2002 while he was employed in South Africa before
he eventually quit his job to concentrate specifically on rearing sheep. Now he has a flock of 300 sheep comprising prime breeds which
produce mainly super fine and fine wool. With this business, Mohaola is able to pay for his children’s education since he makes considerable amounts of money in his business because he is able to make as much as M75, 000.00 through the sale of
wool and mohair.
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But today he is likely to wallow in penury because of the new wool and mohair regulations that prohibit farmers from selling their
produce anywhere they have a market. Mohaola says his business of selling rams is not doing well of late because he bought five rams on credit since business is not as good as it used to be. He says because he loves his animals, he has done everything possible to ensure that they are safe and healthy.
Animals have to be looked after like young children by providing medication and ensuring that they are well fed even during the dry
season, he advises. Like any other form of business, Mohaola says sheep rearing needs dedication and devotion to run it smoothly and further concedes that preparing for the show was stressful because he did not have enough money. His advice to fellow farmers is that they should always take care of pastures because they would save them during trying times.
Evan Hartley, a senior tech at OVK who was a judge for the sheep, says there is notable growth in the quality of sheep in Lesotho,
noting sheep that appeared at the top compare very favourably with those in South Africa. Hartley says there is huge potential of good farmers in the country. “We have to get out and help ordinary farmers to improve their flock,” he notes. He concedes although there is a long way to go but looking back where farmers come from, there is serious improvement, further advising farmers to take care of their livestock by giving them proper medication.
Hartley adds the value in livestock reflects the quality of wool and notes farmers should strive to have good quality sheep even if they
are few because that is where they will make money. His Majesty King Letsie III also says there is considerable improvement in the quality of livestock which he says shows that farmers are working tirelessly to nurture their livestock. He says livestock is not only important to individual farmers but to the country as a whole.
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