By Maile Matsimela
For farming to keep evolving, the older generation must hand the baton to the next generation. This transition is unfolding in Bloemfontein, Free State, where Zinhle and Lindiwe Dasheka’s father is preparing his daughters to lead the family farming business.
African Farming Digital Editor Maile Matsimela met the sisters at the 5th Annual National Ankole Auction, held at Bona Bona Game Lodge in North West province, where they successfully acquired two Ankole cows.
The Dasheka family owns Imvelo Safaris and Game Breeders, where their portfolio extends beyond Ankole cattle to include Borans and Bonsmaras. Additionally, the family operates another farm where they raise Drakensbergers cattle for the commercial market.
“It’s a family business and we are guided by our father, but of course, with our own determination,” says Lindiwe.
Education wise, Lindiwe holds a BCom Law Degree and is currently pursuing her LLB, while her sister, Zinhle, is studying BCom Law Degree. Together, they balance academic pursuits with their growing role in the family’s agricultural enterprise.
“In 2022, my dad purchased the first Ankole and he’s the one who introduced us to stud breeding,” Lindiwe shares. This introduction came 15 years after their father began his farming journey in 2007, establishing a solid foundation upon which the sisters now build.
The diversification strategy has introduced the sisters to both game breeding and cattle operations.
The sisters’ growing passion for Ankole cattle is evident in how they describe these magnificent animals, known for their distinctive long, curved horns.
“The horns are just so attractive, the boldness,” Lindiwe enthuses. “They can also be used for trophies and sculptures.” This aesthetic appeal adds significant value beyond meat production, creating additional market opportunities.
The Dasheka sisters are serious about developing their Ankole herd, regularly attending specialised auctions to acquire animals with superior genetics. Their recent purchases demonstrate their commitment to quality and strategic breeding.
At a recent auction, they acquired Lot 23, Ithuba (RM20-004), a 4-year-10-month-old cow. This impressive animal, from the Sterkfontein Ankole bloodline, features horns measuring 37 6/8” and 38 7/8” in length, with a tip-to-tip span of 49”. Ithuba comes from prestigious parentage, with her sire being the renowned 49 4/8” Dyambo (NANK07-047), and was sold as a 3-in-1 package with her 48” Bosveld calf.
The sisters also purchased Lot 41, Ruby Tuesday (LU 23-04), a younger 2-year-3-month-old female. This promising sub-adult boasts an impressive lineage, being the daughter of the 52” Cumulus (NANK10-120) and 41 2/8” Jewel (NANK10-106). With horn measurements of 17 2/8” and 17 4/8” length and a 37” tip-to-tip span, Ruby Tuesday was running with the 48 3/8” Google (A12-005) at the time of sale.
“We are trying to grow our herd and get prominent Ankole bloodlines and genetics,” Lindiwe explains. Their strategic approach focuses on specific bloodlines that will strengthen their breeding programme. “We are building a bloodline using breeds such as Cumulus, Dyambo, MR President, Kovu and Google,” she adds, naming some of the most sought-after Ankole lines in South Africa.
This methodical approach to herd development demonstrates the sisters’ understanding of genetics and breeding principles.
As emerging farmers, the Dasheka sisters face the dual challenge of expanding their herd while enhancing their genetic quality, a process that requires careful selection and constant learning. These sisters represent a promising trend in South African farming – educated young people who see value in returning to the land, combining traditional knowledge with contemporary approaches.
