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ZIMBABWEANS in Diaspora and scores of locals thronged Glenluce Farm in Norton last weekend to exchange notes on Boer goats rearing.
Farm owner, Eliwe Mandishona, 50, a divorcee, founded the Boer goats and Sheep Club, which has become popular with many farmers.
Last weekend, the club distributed their third consignment of paddock fence to paid subscribers.
She took the guests on a tour of the farm, outlining her vision, which was embraced by old and new members.
The event culminated into a farming Indaba as subscribers were outnumbered by new farmers, of all age groups, sex and class.
One of the club members from the United Kingdom, William Maphosa, 54, said home will always be the best.
“I believe the real opportunities are here back home in Zimbabwe,” he said.
“I spent 17 years as a freelance lecturer in London with a Masters’ Degree in Business Intelligence and Analytics from University of Westminster.
“I decided to come back to Zimbabwe and play my part in building our country by venturing into agriculture.
“I have always wanted to go into goat farming and I have been researching a lot about it.
“I came across a WhatsApp group, Boergoats & Sheep Club, which was looking for members interested in Boer goats and sheep farming and joined in 2023.”
Maphosa said he decided to join the club after meeting Mandishona, who outlined the group’s vision.
“I have paid all the 2023 subscriptions as a show of trust and confidence in the club.
“It doesn’t matter that I don’t have a farm but by joining and honouring my subscriptions, I just believe that I am sowing a seed.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by medical doctor, Dr Alifazema Macdonald.
“This is club is a noble idea, which can capacitate marginalised people throughout Zimbabwe, especially rural communities, in order for them to be self-reliant.
“I joined the club in December 2022, after seeing their link on social media groups.
“I have a plot in Trelawney where I want to do a goat and poultry project.
“I felt encouraged and motivated by this project meant to empower small holder goat farmers.”
Namibia-based member, Tatenda Mashozhera, welcomed the initiative.
“I love goat farming because of its high returns.
“These animals are very adoptive, disease resistant and not affected by the Zimbabwean climate as it is relatively the same with Namibian weather patterns.”
Online Reporter