By Zolani Sinxo
The Estina Dairy Farm, located in Vrede, Free State, has transformed from a farm once plagued by corruption and failure into a thriving example of resilience and renewal. Now operating under new management and a new name, Phumelela Dairy, the farm has moved away from its troubled past and embraced a new chapter defined by transparency, skilled leadership, and community empowerment. The term “Phumelela” means “to succeed” in isiZulu and is also the name of the local municipality in the Free State where the farm is located.
Terrence Maila, the farm manager, along with the Milk Producers Organisation (MPO), is at the core of this remarkable turnaround. Together, they have turned the farm into a sustainable operation that benefits local workers and the broader economy, focusing on empowering its workforce.
According to Ronald Rapholo, Training and Transformation Manager at the MPO Training Institute, building the skills of farm workers has been crucial to its success.
“Training initiatives in dairy production and artificial insemination have not only improved productivity but have also uplifted the workers and their families,” Rapholo said. “A sense of unity and shared purpose has emerged among the team, driving the project forward.”
He said they are going back to the basics, ensuring that the farm keeps all the records and increases productivity.
“The future looks bright. We have implemented strategic changes such as better feeding practices and meticulous record-keeping, significantly enhancing cow health and milk production. Average yields have more than doubled, increasing from 9 litres to 20 litres per cow. The farm’s focus on efficiency has allowed it to achieve more with fewer cows, currently milking 145 of its herd,” said Rapholo.
Financial transparency has been another cornerstone of Phumelela Dairy’s revival. Monthly financial updates provided by an external accountant ensure accountability, while government funding has helped stabilise the farm during its transformation.
Phumelela Dairy is not just surviving but thriving with an eye towards expansion. The farm is diversifying into maize production for silage, which will support the dairy operation and enhance its sustainability. Plans are in place to grow the herd to 400 cows and achieve a calving interval of less than 400 days, ensuring consistent productivity.
Through collaboration, vision, and determination, Phumelela Dairy has transformed itself from a symbol of failure into one of hope and opportunity.
