Bulilima San goat project targets 67 households

By Staff Reporter

NDOLWANE- 15 October 2026 — Authorities and community leaders in Bulilima have identified water shortages, inadequate grazing, livestock theft and predator attacks as key risks facing a planned goat farming project targeting 67 San households in Makhulela Ward 9.

The concerns were raised during a community sensitisation meeting held at Sabasi Village on Wednesday, as stakeholders prepared beneficiaries for the distribution of 280 goats under the Sustainable Livelihoods Programme.

The project is expected to provide 210 does and 70 bucks, with each of the 67 identified households proposed to receive three does and one buck, subject to verification of the beneficiary register and final distribution arrangements.

Sabasi Village has two functional boreholes, prompting discussions on how households would secure adequate water for their livestock while minimising the risk of theft.

Village Head Mme Matjena Ncube said households would fetch water and carry it to the goats at their shelters rather than allow the animals to travel long distances in search of drinking water.

Stakeholders also raised concerns over grazing and supplementary feed, particularly during the dry season, while livestock protection measures were identified as essential to the project's success.

Mr Makaranga of Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) emphasised the need to select goats suited to local conditions and ensure proper feeding and management.

ARDAS is expected to provide guidance on feed production and supplementary feeding, with extension officers scheduled to visit participating households weekly to monitor progress and offer technical advice.

Beneficiaries also raised concerns about hyena attacks and livestock theft, with secure household kraals and close supervision identified as key protective measures.

The Government has secured fencing materials for the goat shelters, while beneficiaries are expected to provide roofing materials and wooden poles, known as droppers, to complete the structures before the livestock arrives.

Community members called for practical training to equip them with the skills needed to manage the goats, prevent disease, maintain proper feeding practices and seek veterinary assistance when necessary.

Veterinary Services and ARDAS are expected to provide technical support, including training ahead of the livestock distribution.

Chief Masendu urged community members to work together and take responsibility for sustaining the initiative, saying development efforts should ensure that no one is left behind.

He encouraged beneficiaries to embrace farming and self-reliance, highlighting the need for communities to complement government support with active participation.

The meeting focused on addressing logistical and livestock management challenges before distribution, with stakeholders stressing the need to prepare shelters, establish reliable feeding and watering arrangements and train beneficiaries.

The project aims to help participating households build productive livestock assets and strengthen their livelihoods. Its success will depend on effective coordination between beneficiaries, traditional leaders and government departments, as well as sustained technical support after the goats are distributed.

Source: Radio Bukalanga