From Rural Roots to National Impact: How Dr Justice Masilela is Transforming Livestock Health in South Africa

From a small village in the Nkomazi region of Mpumalanga to the bustling city of Johannesburg, Dr Justice Masilela’s journey is one of determination, passion, and purpose. Today, he stands as one of South Africa’s leading veterinary entrepreneurs, driven by a lifelong commitment to animal welfare and the empowerment of farmers.

As the founder and owner of Asante Veterinary Consultants (AVC) in Boksburg, Dr Masilela has built a company dedicated to improving livestock health and supporting the farmers who form the backbone of South Africa’s agricultural economy.

A Mission Born in the Village

Growing up surrounded by cattle, goats, sheep, and chickens in rural Nkomazi, Dr Masilela’s connection to animals began early. “I understood their basic needs from a young age,” he recalls. “But it was through formal education that I realised how much more there was to animal health and welfare.”

In 2013, he enrolled at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Veterinary Science, where he gained in-depth knowledge about animal nutrition, disease prevention, and vaccination — lessons that would later shape his career. “These were concepts often missing in the rural communities where I grew up,” he notes.

From Community Service to Community Impact

After completing his studies, Dr Masilela served in a community veterinary programme across the West Rand — including Carletonville, Magaliesburg, and the Vaal. The experience opened his eyes to the everyday struggles of farmers.

“I saw how many of their animal health issues could be prevented with proper veterinary care and education,” he explains.

Motivated to bridge that gap, he took a bold step in 2020 and founded Asante Veterinary Consultants (AVC) — starting from his own flat with no funding. His goal was clear: to make professional veterinary services affordable and accessible to emerging farmers and small-scale livestock owners.

Building a Business with Purpose

What began as a one-man operation has grown into a nationally recognised veterinary practice. By 2023, AVC had expanded its footprint across South Africa, partnering with the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) to provide training and veterinary services to farmers in rural and peri-urban communities.

Today, the company employs a team of four dedicated professionals — including a veterinarian, two animal health technicians, and an animal welfare practitioner — all working toward the same mission: healthier herds, empowered farmers, and sustainable agriculture.

Raising the Standard of Animal Health

AVC’s work goes beyond treatment. The company specialises in disease prevention, herd management, and farmer education, helping livestock owners understand best practices to maintain healthy animals and improve productivity.

“I want to continue helping animals live healthier, happier lives and empower people to take better care of the animals they love,” says Dr Masilela. His story is proof that passion, perseverance, and purpose can create lasting impact — not just for animals, but for communities that depend on them.

Contact Details

📞 Phone: 071 105 2824

📧 Email: justicemasilela@asanteveterinary.com

📍 Facebook: Asante Veterinary Consultants