By Lebogang Mashala, Editor at African Farming
In celebration of Youth Month, the 3rd Moalosi Bonsmara Production Auction commenced with a remarkable display of empowerment and mentorship. During the event, two young farmers received heifers as donations from Duncan Serapelwane, the owner and founder of Moalosi Bonsmaras, and his fellow farmer and friend, Walter Motati of Motati Bonsmaras.
The two young farmers, Mbuleleni Manuel (29) from Ganyesa, about 60km from Vryburg, and Tankiso Hailane (33) from Morokweng, 170km from Vryburg, were both astonished to be announced as the lucky recipients of a generous farming initiative.
Tankiso Hailane, who raises Bonsmara cattle on Highlands Farm near Morokweng, expressed her excitement and gratitude for receiving a heifer from her mentor, who is also from Morokweng. She hopes this heifer will significantly aid her farming journey and is committed to doing the same for other aspiring farmers. “Today, I learned a valuable lesson from my mentor about the importance of giving back. I hope that one day, I will be able to walk in his footsteps and support many young people, just as he has supported me,” said Hailane.
Mbululeni Manuel, who farms on Mooilagte Farm between Vryburg and Ganyesa, shared that he is highly motivated by the generosity of both Motati and Serapelwane, whom he admires. “I hope to grow to their level, continue their legacy and help other developing farmers in the future,” he said.
Walter Motati, a Bonsmara stud breeder from Zeerust, located near Mahikeng and Stella, between Mahikeng and Vryburg, believes this initiative will inspire young farmers. “Since this is Youth Month, we felt it was fitting to take this step as a way to inspire and guide these young people toward success. I hope these heifers will contribute to their prosperity, allowing them to support others in the future,” Motati remarked.
Duncan Serapelwane expressed that the young farmers have already demonstrated their dedication and passion for livestock farming, particularly with the Bonsmara breed. He stated that the donation aims to further motivate them. “This initiative is also intended to inspire other young people, demonstrating to them that there is potential in farming. By doing so, they can help address challenges such as food security and unemployment, while making meaningful contributions to the country’s economy,” stated Serapelwane.
“I pray that these young individuals will grow to become even better farmers and, in turn, support other aspiring farmers when the time comes.”
