Mpumalanga Extension Officers Train in SHEP Livestock Model

The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs has brought Animal Extension Officers to eManzana for a three day SHEP Livestock Training. The goal is to strengthen their ability to help farmers connect with stable markets.

The Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Production Approach began in Kenya. It was first created for crop producers. It responds to problems in traditional extension systems and pushes a clear market focus. The model helps farmers understand what buyers want before they produce.

The training in eManzana gives officers practical steps they can pass on to livestock farmers. Officers learn how to guide farmers through baseline market surveys. They learn to help farmers read market needs and adjust production plans. They also learn simple record keeping systems that support better decisions. These skills help farmers reduce losses and improve income.

The workshop promotes a shift in thinking from produce and sell to produce to sell. Farmers who secure a market before production can plan their herd, feed and timing with more confidence. This improves the chance of reaching buyers and earning predictable revenue.

The officers will also visit a local market. This visit gives them a direct view of buyer behavior, price patterns and product quality requirements. The field experience supports the SHEP principle that markets must guide production choices.

The department expects the officers to use these tools to improve advisory services across the province. A stronger market focus can turn livestock farming into a business that responds to real demand. This improves farmer growth and supports rural livelihoods.