Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Features Writer
NYAGACITY Farm in Chegutu, Mashonaland West Province, owned by renowned breeder Letwin Nyagano and her husband Joel, has shattered local records in pig farming.
The couple’s decision to import a huge white sow from Danbred in South Africa has resulted in an astonishing delivery of 25 piglets, the highest number ever recorded in the country.
For the past 15 years, the Nyaganos have been revolutionising pig production, particularly from the inspiring perspective of women, at their esteemed Nyagacity Piggery, located in Ward 15 of Norton.
While they have celebrated consistent successes, this latest milestone is a game-changer.
Mr and Mrs Nyagano are ecstatic of their sow’s impressive feat. The accomplishment was achieved by their two-and-a-half-year-old sow, specifically imported for her breeding capabilities.
In a recent interview, Mrs Nyagano expressed her joy, saying their decision to import this breed had paid off. “This is her third delivery. Before this, we were thrilled with fewer than 12 piglets in the first two litters. But 25? We didn’t see that coming!” she said.
While the world record currently stands at 45 piglets born in Brazil in January this year, the Nyaganos are setting an extraordinary standard in Zimbabwe. In 1993, a single sow gave birth to 37 piglets in the United Kingdom, a record that was recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Mrs Nyagano shared her enthusiasm: “This was our first major delivery, and as far as I know, no sow has surpassed our record here.”
She emphasised the importance of investing in pure breeds for optimal herd expansion and meat production.
Mr Nyagano said while he is also involved in the project, most credit should be given to his wife. “She does all the research and is hands-on. The idea to import the breed that gave birth to the 25 piglets was hers. As men, we should support our partners,” he said.
The Government has since urged farmers to invest in other breeds, especially exotic ones, to grow their animal husbandry.
Authorities also urge farmers to cross-breed their herds with exotic breeds to get better genetically diverse animals that can survive in local conditions, yielding high production.
Agritex Services deputy director, Mr Passmore Nyamadzawo, said although investing in exotic breeds presents chances of increased production, it requires research. “We are accustomed to local breeds that have adapted to our climatic conditions, which means they are less prone to diseases. When one then decides to import an exotic breed that’s highly productive, they also have to understand that feed requirements are on the high side. But farmers have to know that farming is a business. The breeds will have more offspring, which also means more money,” he said.
The Nyaganos have transformed their modest plot into a thriving hub of pig production and education, helping aspiring farmers learn the ropes of piggery. At 62, Mrs Nyagano is much more than just a farmer. She’s a certified trainer, having educated over a thousand individuals in just four years, with students coming from diverse countries, such as Mozambique, Zambia, South Africa and Botswana.
She is this year’s nominee for the Christian Women Entrepreneur Network of Africa Awards to be held in South Africa next month. She is a nominee in the sociopreneur category, which rewards women who dedicate their time to touching lives and spearheading development.
Various learners lauded her for her unwavering dedication and mentorship.
Nimrod Chombo, who intends to expand his piggery project, said the mentorship and training at the Nyagacity facility emphasises the adoption of breeds that enhance production and herd quantity.
Ms Sophia Kalembwe from Zambia said Nyagacity and Mrs Nyagano define pig production from an African perspective. “This is real production. I did some research and found out that the breed that gave her 25 piglets actually has an average of 18 in South Africa, where it originated from. Her success in pig production has to be emulated and rewarded,” she said.
Ms Kalembwe is one of many foreign learners who were taught by the Nyaganos. Equipped with hands-on skills, Mrs Nyagano is also a certified artificial inseminator recognised by the Pig Industry Board. Utilising a single hectare, Mrs Nyagano has constructed 10 pigsty units that house around 1 000 pigs. Her operations include breeding and producing semen for sale to fellow farmers.
“You don’t need vast tracts of land to be successful. One sow averages 60 piglets a year, and each weaner sells for around US$60. Can you imagine the profits?” she said.
Beginning her journey with just three piglets in 2014, Mrs Nyagano’s remarkable resilience and passion have taken her to extraordinary heights.
