The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has intensified its drive to transform the provincial goat industry with the launch of the Provincial Goat Improvement and Beneficiation Programme at Koedoeberg Farm, between Swartruggens and Zeerust.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
Rolled out in partnership with Aphamo Goat Aggregator and several strategic collaborators, the initiative seeks to improve goat genetics, strengthen production systems and unlock value-adding opportunities for emerging and smallholder farmers.
Earlier this year, DARD committed R36.856 million to the Red Meat Industry Development and Enhancement Programme as part of a broader effort to reposition the province as a significant player in South Africa’s red meat economy. The funding was announced by North West Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha during the department’s policy and budget speech at the North West Provincial Legislature.
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A Turning Point for the Goat Sector
The programme is expected to make a direct impact on 7 242 livestock farmers – 4 728 men, 2 219 women, 252 youth and 43 people with disabilities. Support will focus on structured production systems, improved market access and seamless integration into formal value chains.
Although the initiative is anchored in North West, its benefits are expected to extend to goat farmers across the country.
According to Andrew Aphane, founder of Aphamo Boerdery and host of the launch, the programme will be a turning point for the goat sector. North West currently ranks as the third-largest goat-producing province in South Africa. “This could take the province to the number one or two spot,” Aphane said.
“We are extremely excited to partner with DARD and work alongside reputable institutions such as the Agricultural Research Council and North-West University. Together, we will improve breeding, increase productivity, support value addition and strengthen the livelihoods of many farmers, while positioning the North West Province as a leading player in the goat industry,” he added.
One of the first beneficiaries, emerging farmer Realeboga Mangwegape, welcomed the initiative. “I am delighted to be part of the first group that will receive goats. This support will help me improve my herd, and I am looking forward to the training and mentorship that will guide me to grow my farm into a sustainable business,” he said.
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Changing the Status Quo in Goat Farming
Speaking at the launch, MEC Sambatha highlighted the programme’s role in reshaping the sector and uplifting rural communities.
“Our responsibility as the Department is to change the status quo in goat farming, formalise the sector and increase its commercial value. Goats thrive in our environment and offer strong market opportunities. This programme will ensure that goat farmers in the province not only participate but lead in the agricultural economy, positioning the North West Province as a benchmark for goat-farming excellence,” Sambatha said.
North-West University (NWU) and the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) will provide technical expertise, scientific guidance and research support to ensure that breeding practices, herd management and production techniques align with modern, sustainable and commercially sound standards.
Through this scientific backing and coordinated market linkages, farmers will gain access to improved breeding stock, technical training, advisory services and aggregation platforms. By strengthening production and value chains, the programme aims to boost farmer incomes, stimulate job creation and cement North West’s livestock sector as a key driver of rural economic development.
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