By Fedelis Zvomuya
It is a crisp morning in Newcastle in northern KwaZulu-Natal; the air smells of damp earth and the promise of a new day. Standing by the paddock on his family farm, 34-year-old Ismail Ameen surveys the horizon. His prized Tuli cattle, with their rich red-brown coats gleaming in the early sun, graze contentedly. To Ismael, these animals are far more than livestock – they are his legacy, his passion, and his promise for a sustainable future.
Born into a lineage of farmers, Ismael’s journey has been anything but typical. From his grandfather’s tales of resilient indigenous cattle to the trials of rebuilding a farm in an era of climate unpredictability, his story weaves a narrative of heritage, perseverance and innovation.
“Farming is not just about producing food; it’s about respecting the land,” he says, his voice firm with conviction. This philosophy, instilled by his parents and grandparents, underpins every decision made on his farm, named iFarm. A third-generation farmer, Ismail recalls the lessons imparted by his parents, Shabeer and Zarina Ameen: a deep reverence for the environment, the value of community, and resilience to weather the many storms that come with farming.
A Facebook post and a family legacy
Ismael’s love for Tuli cattle began unexpectedly while scrolling through Facebook. “I saw a post about Tuli cattle in Bronkhorstspruit,” he recalls with a nostalgic smile. “It immediately reminded me of my grandfather’s fascination with the breed. I didn’t think twice about persuading my father to join me on a trip to see them.”
That visit marked a turning point. They returned to the farm with nine animals – seven cows, a heifer and a bull – which became the foundation of Ismael’s Tuli herd. “These cattle didn’t just survive the harsh winter – they thrived,” he says. “I knew I had found something extraordinary.”
Why Tuli cattle?
Tuli cattle, native to Zimbabwe, are no ordinary breed. Renowned for their resilience, fertility and adaptability, they thrive in tough conditions with minimal maintenance. “These animals are built for Africa,” Ismael says. “Their beef quality is exceptional – finely marbled, tender, and sought after in the market.”
But for Ismael, Tuli cattle represent more than profitability. “They’re a living testament to our region’s agricultural legacy,” he says. By focusing on this indigenous breed, he is preserving genetic diversity while promoting sustainable farming practices.
iFarm: A vision for regenerative agriculture
At the heart of Ismael’s philosophy lies iFarm, his family-run operation dedicated to regenerative farming. “Our focus is on soil health, biodiversity and ecosystem services,” he says. “The cattle are an integral part of a larger, balanced ecosystem. We work to ensure the land benefits as much as we do.”
In a country facing increasing climate challenges, hardy, low-maintenance and disease-resistant breeds like the Tuli are proving invaluable. “Every decision we make is data-driven,” Ismael says. “It’s not just about tradition; it’s about science and sustainability working together.”
A partner in farming
Behind many a great farmer is a partner who is equally remarkable. For Ismael, that person is his wife, Lutfiyya. At only 29, she balances her career as a speech-language therapist with an active role on the farm. “Despite having no background in farming, she’s jumped in with both feet,” Ismael says. From maintaining meticulous cattle records to offering emotional support during tough times, Lutfiyya has been integral to iFarm’s success.
“She is my biggest supporter,” Ismael adds with a smile. “Her daily encouragement reminds me to stay focused and grounded.”
Challenges and triumphs
Like many other farmers, Ismael has faced his share of challenges, from droughts to fluctuating markets and the ever-present threat of climate change. Yet he remains resolute. “My proudest moment?” he reflects. “Watching my first herd of Tuli cattle thrive. It was a powerful reminder of what hard work and faith can achieve.”
Ismael is convinced that livestock farming holds the key to addressing South Africa’s twin crises of food security and climate change. “When done responsibly, cattle farming improves soil fertility, promotes biodiversity, and provides communities with high-quality protein.”
Tuli cattle, in particular, offer significant advantages: their adaptability results in lower feed costs, and their higher fertility rate and disease resistance reduce veterinary expenses. “They’re the future of sustainable livestock farming.”
Looking ahead
This year marks a major milestone for Ismael: registering as an official Tuli cattle breeder. “It’s the next step in our journey,” he says. With this designation, iFarm will play a crucial role in preserving the Tuli breed and inspiring the next generation of farmers.
“Farming isn’t just a career – it’s a calling. It’s about leaving the land better than you found it.”
Empowering farmers: The Tuli Growth Initiative
Ismael’s work is part of the Tuli Growth Initiative, supported by the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (FREF). Last year, a FREF team visited iFarm and the Hlanganani Stud Group in Mooi River to witness first-hand the transformative impact of their investment.
“Through our agri-systems portfolio, we’re not just funding projects; we’re also building a sustainable future for South Africa,” says FREF project manager Nokulunga Gasa.
Founded in 2021, FREF identified agriculture as a critical sector for reducing poverty and inequality. Its initiatives focus on empowering black farmers, promoting climate-resilient farming practices and bolstering food security.
One standout initiative is the Tuli Growth Initiative, which aims to commercialise black-owned Tuli cattle farms while preserving this indigenous breed. Nokulunga highlights the collaborative spirit that drives the initiative’s success: “‘Hlanganani’ means ‘come together’, and that’s exactly what these farmers have done. They’ve pooled resources and knowledge to create something remarkable.”
A brighter tomorrow
Through its R200 million investment in 11 organisations, FREF is transforming South Africa’s agricultural landscape. From the Vine Academy, which supports black raisin farmers, to the Siyazisiza Trust, which advances rural food security, these projects showcase the power of partnerships in driving meaningful change.
“Farming is more than profits – it’s about people, potential and a better tomorrow,” Nokulunga says.
For Ismael, Lutfiyya and iFarm, the journey is just beginning. Their work stands as a powerful testament to resilience, passion and the transformative potential of sustainable agriculture.
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