Chantelle Smit is the newly appointed breed director of the SA Boer Goat Breeders’ Association (SABGBA). It is a prestigious position, but it is also a position that calls for responsibility, especially within such a pivotal industry.

By Mkhululi Chimoio

According to Smit, it was “a true honour” to be appointed to this position, and her first aim is “to hear people, establish trust and bring people together to work towards a common goal”.

“My focus is on unity and collaboration,” she says. “The Boer goat breed has a proud heritage, and it is very important that we, as a group of breeders, work together to ensure its future and support our farmers who rely on this breed.”

A Vision Rooted in Strength and Functionality

The clear vision behind Smit’s idea for the Boer goat is to create a “strong, functional Boer goat that thrives in South African conditions, remaining the world benchmark breed”.

The drive of SABGBA, under the leadership of Smit, focuses on strengthening the genetics, performance and integrity of the breed. This includes upholding the breed standard, promoting good farming practices and ensuring performance outcomes in genuine conditions.

The challenges are enormous, and the biggest one is “keeping the breed functional under extensive and intensive systems of farming”. It is “critical that breeding in Boer goats involves building ‘resilience’. Fortunately, the breed is up to the test!”

Helping Farmers and New Breeders

Profitability is key to the mission of SABGBA. According to Smit, the association supports farmers in their efforts by concentrating on genetics, better management and knowledge, which is actionable on the farm. Young breeders benefit from mentorship, quality genetics, first-hand training and the possibility to develop within the industry.

“Young people are the key to the breed’s long-term success,” Smit emphasises.

“We need to keep the industry fresh, young and trendy, so they feel proud to be part of it. With new young entrants, not only are our sustainability efforts ensured, but so is the brand’s success,” she says.

Expanding Markets and Reputation Issues

The demand for quality Boer goats is substantial, locally as well as internationally.

“Our responsibility is, however, to protect our reputation by [ensuring] consistency, as we [strive] for recognition of the SA Boer goat as a brand, worldwide, for its product quality as well as hardiness,” explains Smit. By showcasing good partnership as well as trust, they seek cooperation between breeds to create a supportive environment.

Chantelle Smit, The Breed Director Of The Sa Boer Goat Breeders’ Association. Photo: Mkhululi Chimoio — Chantelle Smit, the breed director of the SA Boer Goat Breeders’ Association. Photo: Mkhululi Chimoio

Looking to the Future

In the coming years, Smit hopes to make an indelible impact on the sector. “I would like to think that in years to come, I will be remembered as the one who helped protect the integrity of the Boer goat, leaving a good legacy, a good foundation, for the youth coming behind me.”

It is clear that under Smit’s leadership, the SA Boer goat breed is poised to exemplify South African excellence. By blending its proud heritage with performance-focused breeding, modern innovations and practical farm-tested solutions, Smit aims to ensure that the Boer goat meets the demands of contemporary farming while remaining the world benchmark for the breed. Through her focus on mentorship, emerging breeders, youth engagement and sustainable genetic improvement, SABGBA is set to build a resilient, profitable and globally respected industry, one where heritage, innovation and integrity work hand in hand to secure the breed’s future for generations to come.

Smit’s leadership is defined by growth, integrity, and progress. From mentoring young breeders to supporting commercial farmers and maintaining world-class genetics, her vision will help the breed reach its full potential, both in South Africa and globally.

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SABGBA Programmes Driving the Future of the Boer Goat

SABGBA is spearheading the future of the Boer goat breed under various programmes, including the following:

Genetic Improvement Programmes

SABGBA’s genetic improvement programmes aim to develop hardy, functional Boer goats that strengthen farming systems prevalent in South Africa. The association promotes quantified and honest breeding, ensuring transparency and enabling breeders, including emerging farmers, to make informed decisions based on measurable data.

Farmer Support, Training and Mentorship

Direct support to farmers remains a core priority. SABGBA provides training, classes and mentorship focused on improving productivity through practical herd management, breeding strategies and animal-rearing systems suited to local conditions.

Emerging Breeder Development

The association is committed to supporting the next generation of breeders. Emerging breeder development initiatives offer new entrants improved access to quality genetics, hands-on experience and clear pathways for growth and career progression within the industry

Youth Engagement and Industry Modernisation

Recognising the value of young people, SABGBA actively invests in youth engagement by modernising the Boer goat breeding industry. These efforts make the sector relevant and appealing to younger generations, while fostering pride in South Africa’s agricultural heritage.

Market Development and Expansion

Market expansion remains a strategic focus. SABGBA works to protect the breed’s reputation for quality and consistency, ensuring sustained demand for South African Boer goats in both local and international markets.