By Maile Matsimela
The Donate-A-Cow Programme is a compassionate endeavour where individuals extend a helping hand to those in need by donating a cow towards their agricultural studies or as a start-up to their agribusiness.
This will not only help alleviate poverty but also promote economic stability and resilience among marginalised communities.
The inception of the Donate-a-Cow/Heifer Programme was spearheaded by Dr Sejako Senatle in 2023. Dr Senatle generously gifted a heifer to Lebogang Serapelwane.
Lebogang’s niece Lesedi Serapelwane, founder and CEO of Morakeng Farm Camp, says this initial act of kindness has flourished, resulting in the birth of 10 calves. Over the years, she used the proceeds from the sale of these cattle to build herself a house.
Inspired by the transformative effects in 2013, Lebogang has partnered with Morakeng Farm Camp to run a competition where deserving candidates could win a cow or heifer. The winner was Phelokazi Majokwani from the Eastern Cape.
Lesedi says the process of participating is quite easy as individuals only have to write a two-page letter explaining why they deserve to win and what their plans are when chosen as a winner.
After the successful transfer of the cow to the beneficiary, TV Serapelwane was amused by the impeccable initiative, and he committed himself to sponsor a Simbra-type heifer towards the Morakeng Farm Camp as part of the 2024 Donate a Cow Programme. The winner of that Simbra-type heifer was Amogelang Gabonnwe from Taung Village in the North West province.
The official transfer of the heifer took place on 2 March this year. Amogelang Gabonnwe collected his well-deserved prize together with his parents who explained how exciting and inspiring this experience has been for them as a family.
“We hope and believe this great initiative will continue to inspire future farmers, individuals and institutions to collaborate with Morakeng Farm Camp in supporting and growing the initiative,” says Lesedi.
Also read:
• Genetics and breeding technologies in livestock farming
• Livestock production: How to prepare your animals for breeding
• Expert advice from Bonsmara SA breed advisor Sandile Nzuza
