After studying retail business management and working in the sector until 2021, Kuruman-based farmer Tlhalefo Dithebe made a decision many would consider risky – she resigned from a permanent job and invested her pension into agriculture.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
Today, that decision has grown into Agro Queen, a livestock enterprise managing 133 cattle and 147 goats, with a growing footprint in both meat and milk production.
Farming is not new to Dithebe. It runs in her family.
Her late grandfather was a respected farmer in the Kuruman district, a legacy her father carried forward and the one she has now taken to the next level. Even during her studies, her father laid the foundation for her future by saving 80% of her R14 000 semester allowance. “When I finished my studies, he asked me what I wanted to do with the money,” she recalls. “That’s when the idea of buying livestock started.” That early financial discipline became the seed capital for Agro Queen.
From 31 Cattle to a Growing Herd
Dithebe started small, with just 31 cattle in 2021. But her growth has been anything but accidental. “We had young heifers, open cows and one bull. Our model was simple: sell the male calves at 180kg to 220kg through auctions and retain all the heifers,” she explains.
By reinvesting the proceeds into purchasing more heifers, she steadily expanded her herd. On the goat side, strong genetics played a key role. With a high-performing ram, the farm consistently produces twins and triplets, accelerating natural herd growth without needing to reinvest heavily in breeding stock.
Also read: Former female teacher now herds over 200 Beefmaster cattle
Smart Breeding for Harsh Conditions
Operating in a low-rainfall area has shaped Dithebe’s production decisions. She has focused her cattle operation exclusively on Bonsmara, a breed known for its adaptability and resilience. “They maintain body condition even during drought and have high fertility. They also perform very well in feedlots,” she says. Her goats are predominantly Boer goats, selected for their fast growth, meat production and ability to thrive in dry conditions.
To further strengthen her herd, Dithebe has embraced artificial insemination. This has improved genetic diversity while reducing the cost of maintaining bulls. “AI has improved our calving rate and overall productivity year-on-year,” she notes.
Feeding Through the Seasons
Like many farmers in arid regions, Dithebe relies heavily on veld grazing, supported by strategic supplementation. “We use energy and production licks, and rotate between winter and summer licks to maintain condition,” she explains.
She also adjusts feeding for different production stages, ensuring pregnant, lactating and growing animals receive tailored nutrition. To reduce costs, she produces her own feed using maize residues mixed with molasses – a practical example of on-farm resource optimisation.
Also read: The female farmer who refused to undervalue her work – and built a winning business
Goat Milk: A Personal Discovery Turned Business
One of Agro Queen’s most promising ventures came from a deeply personal experience.
When Dithebe noticed her son’s eczema improving after he consumed goat milk, she saw more than just a health benefit – she saw a business opportunity. Today, the farm produces goat milk for local markets, though supply still falls short of demand.
“Our target is 210 litres per week, but currently we are producing about 126 litres because some of the goats are pregnant,” she explains. To protect animal health and ensure quality colostrum, milking is paused 60 days before kidding, which is a necessary trade-off between production and sustainability.
Also read: Investing in genetics: How Beefmaster farmer Dr Lesia built a thriving enterprise
A Diversified Market Approach
Dithebe’s market strategy reflects both flexibility and understanding of local demand.
“Our primary market is feedlots, auctions and the community,” she says.
- Weaners are sold through auctions and to feedlots;
- Slaughter-ready cattle are sold directly within the community;
- Some animals are sold for breeding to improve local genetics; and
- Goat milk is sold locally for household consumption and as a supplement for young livestock.
This multi-channel approach allows her to respond to market conditions while maintaining consistent cash flow.
Health, Discipline and Risk Management
In a challenging production environment, Dithebe places strong emphasis on preventative health.
She follows a strict vaccination, dosing and parasite control programme for both cattle and goats, supported by supplements to maintain immunity. “I believe in preventing in time rather than losing livestock due to lack of maintenance,” she says. This disciplined approach is critical in a dry region where disease outbreaks and environmental stress can quickly erode profits.
Also read: How 24-year-old Lesego Mpho Mohube built a farming business without land or family connections
Building a Business Mindset
Beyond production, Dithebe has invested heavily in her development as an entrepreneur.
Through programmes such as Anglo American’s Zimele business accelerator and the Impact Finance Network, she has strengthened her business skills, embraced technology and improved her branding. “These programmes helped me build my brand. Today I can create a professional business plan using AI, and my business runs more efficiently,” she says.
Farming remains male-dominated, but Dithebe refuses to be sidelined. “If you really want something, you raise your hand and speak,” she says. Her confidence is backed by results – and a growing enterprise that continues to expand despite challenges.
A Message to Aspiring Farmers
Her advice is direct and practical: “Start now. Don’t overthink it. Farmers are supportive and willing to share information. Attend programmes that help your business grow and the results will surprise you.”
The Next Generation is Already Watching
At just 12 years old, her daughter is already planting crops in the backyard, a sign that the Dithebe farming legacy is far from over.
From a carefully saved student allowance to a thriving livestock enterprise, Dithebe’s journey is a powerful example of how vision, discipline and smart production decisions can turn risk into opportunity.
Also read:
Lessons from the ground: Building a livestock business on communal land
From city roots to cattle ranching success
