REHOBOTH – The 40th edition of the Rehoboth Agricultural and Industrial Trade Fair, held from 17 to 19 September, showcased the vibrant spirit of Namibia’s young, emerging farmers.

Among the highlights were several breeders under the age of 40 who made a notable impression in the livestock competitions, demonstrating the growing involvement of youth in the country’s agricultural sector.

Notable young participants included 23-year-old Wayne Nell, 25-year-old Algeray Cloete, 30-year-old Riveno Alberts, and 38-year-old Milando Titus.

Their participation underscored a new generation of farmers investing in livestock breeding, travelling to agricultural shows to showcase their animals, compete, and evaluate their breeding programmes against those of their peers. At the livestock ring, judges assessed a ram against criteria that went beyond size and appearance. Attention was given to traits such as masculine development, body length and capacity, muscularity, structural soundness, legs and feet, as well as breed-specific characteristics.

Such evaluations provide breeders with valuable insights into their herds’ qualities and highlight areas for improvement.

Nell, who farms alongside his father, has expanded his operations from Boer goats to Van Rooy sheep, citing the latter as better suited to their environmental conditions.

He views agricultural shows as essential platforms for gaining experience and assessing his animals. “The interaction between young breeders was also important. The atmosphere among competitors was one of camaraderie and mutual support,” he said.

Cloete, a Boerbok breeder, reflected on the event’s significance, saying, “I have been working for this for a whole year. To see that you can reap the fruits at the end of the day, that’s something to be proud of.”

He also emphasised that shows serve as opportunities to improve breeding stock and learn from others. Meanwhile, Alberts manages a Boerbok stud and has taken a strategic approach to refining his breeding programme.

After travelling to South Africa for Boerbok industry training, Alberts attends shows to learn from fellow breeders and compare his animals with industry standards.

“You measure your animals, see where you stand, and see how you can improve. It’s a business in its own right. Not just a hobby,” he explained. Titus entered the competition after encouragement from fellow farmers. Their involvement brought unexpected recognition, which Titus described as a significant milestone.

“It showed us that the work and money we invested in our animals are beginning to pay off. We are still building our operation and face challenges, including rising costs for feed, veterinary care, infrastructure, and market development,” she said.

Titus emphasised that the achievement is not solely about prizes but about the progress of their ongoing efforts. Despite the event’s competitive nature, the young breeders highlighted the importance of cooperation and mutual support within the livestock sector. Alberts remarked, “We have become brothers. We are more like family. We help and support each other. Success in the livestock ring varies from one show to the next. Today it’s my turn, tomorrow it’s yours. If you clap for me on my day, I clap for you on your day.”

The Rehoboth trade fair provided these young breeders with another valuable opportunity to test their animals, gain practical experience, and strengthen their breeding programmes.

As they continue to participate in the livestock show circuit, their work extends beyond the competition, involving animal preparation, breeding decisions, and investment in the next generation of livestock. For Namibia’s young farmers, the journey in livestock breeding is a continuous effort marked by dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision for a sustainable future in agriculture. -herdmann@nepc.com.na