Limpopo DARD Empowers Broiler and Layer Farmers in Mogalakwena Through Skills Development

The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to strengthen the province’s agricultural sector by investing in the growth and development of local farmers. The department is working closely with industry partners to ensure that poultry producers receive the knowledge and practical support needed to build sustainable farming businesses. As part of this commitment, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with Brennco and the Mogalakwena Local Municipality, is hosting a Broiler and Layers Farmers’ Day at the Old Castle Chamber Hall in Mogalakwena Local Municipality, located within the Waterberg District. The event brings together poultry farmers, agricultural experts and stakeholders to exchange valuable information that can improve production and profitability. By creating opportunities for learning and collaboration, the initiative supports the long-term goal of increasing food production while strengthening rural economies across Limpopo.

The Farmers’ Day focuses on one of the most important aspects of successful poultry farming, which is proper broiler and layer nutrition and production management. Poultry farming remains one of the fastest-growing agricultural industries in South Africa because of the constant demand for chicken meat and eggs. However, achieving consistent production requires farmers to understand nutrition, housing, disease prevention, biosecurity and efficient farm management. During the session, experts share practical advice that farmers can immediately apply to improve the health and performance of their flocks. The combination of technical presentations and practical knowledge helps participants better understand how small improvements in daily management can lead to higher productivity and increased profits.

Nutrition plays a central role in poultry production because it directly affects bird growth, egg production and overall flock health. Farmers attending the event receive guidance on selecting appropriate feed, managing feeding schedules and ensuring birds receive balanced nutrition throughout their production cycles. Proper feeding not only improves weight gain in broilers but also increases egg quality and laying performance in layer operations. Participants also learn how nutrition influences disease resistance and reduces unnecessary production losses. By applying these principles, farmers can lower operating costs while improving the quality of products supplied to local markets.

The programme also highlights the importance of knowledge transfer as a tool for agricultural development. Many emerging farmers possess land and determination but often lack access to current production methods and industry information. Events such as the Broiler and Layers Farmers’ Day bridge this gap by connecting producers with experienced professionals and successful farmers. Learning directly from experts allows participants to avoid costly mistakes and adopt proven farming practices. This approach strengthens individual farming enterprises while contributing to the broader development of the poultry sector in Limpopo.

An inspiring part of the event comes from Ms. Gloria Mahlabegoana, a graduate of the Women Creating Wealth programme. She encouraged farmers to look beyond primary production by exploring opportunities in agro-processing and participating in the wider agricultural value chain. Agro-processing creates additional income streams by transforming raw agricultural products into finished goods with greater market value. Ms. Mahlabegoana reflected on how the department’s support helped her expand her own agricultural business and develop new opportunities for growth. Her experience demonstrated that government development programmes can create meaningful change when farmers actively participate and apply the knowledge they receive.

Her message also reinforced the importance of taking advantage of the various programmes and services offered by the department. Many agricultural support initiatives provide training, mentorship, market access opportunities and technical assistance that help farmers build stronger businesses. Emerging farmers often face challenges such as limited capital, production risks and changing market conditions. Access to support programmes can help reduce these barriers while improving long-term business sustainability. Encouraging more farmers to participate in these initiatives contributes to a stronger and more competitive agricultural sector across the province.

The event also provided farmers with an opportunity to share their own experiences and perspectives. Ms. Esther Kololo explained that the session offers valuable knowledge and practical skills that farmers can apply to improve productivity and expand their operations. She noted that learning new production techniques helps farmers make informed decisions that directly benefit their businesses. Improved productivity can increase household incomes while creating employment opportunities within local communities. Her comments reflected the value that many farmers place on continuous learning and professional development.

Beyond improving individual farms, the Farmers’ Day contributes to broader food security goals. South Africa continues to experience growing demand for affordable sources of protein, making efficient poultry production increasingly important. Supporting local broiler and layer farmers helps ensure a stable supply of fresh chicken meat and eggs for surrounding communities. Strong local production also reduces dependence on external suppliers while supporting local economic development. As more farmers improve their production systems, consumers benefit from increased product availability and potentially more stable food prices.

The collaboration between the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Brennco and the Mogalakwena Local Municipality highlights the value of partnerships in agricultural development. Government institutions, private sector companies and local municipalities each contribute unique expertise and resources that benefit farming communities. Such partnerships create opportunities for farmers to access technical knowledge, industry networks and practical solutions that might otherwise be difficult to obtain. Working together also strengthens the agricultural support system by ensuring that farmers receive comprehensive assistance. These collaborative efforts help build resilient farming enterprises capable of adapting to future challenges.

The Broiler and Layers Farmers’ Day demonstrates the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s ongoing commitment to empowering farmers through education, practical training and sustainable development initiatives. By equipping poultry producers with modern production knowledge and encouraging participation in the agricultural value chain, the department is helping farmers improve productivity and strengthen their businesses. The experiences shared by successful entrepreneurs and local farmers further inspire participants to pursue new opportunities within the agricultural sector. As these farmers apply the skills and insights gained during the session, they will be better positioned to contribute to local economic growth and food security. Initiatives like this continue to build a stronger, more resilient agricultural industry that supports livelihoods and creates lasting benefits for communities throughout Limpopo.