Young farmer overcomes odds to succeed in poultry farming
In the remote village of Gamolete in Miltonduff near Bochum, Limpopo, a determined young female entrepreneur has turned her passion for agriculture into a thriving business.
Rebotile Pheladi Makobela started her poultry farming venture in 2017. She has not only created employment opportunities for her community but has also become a beacon of hope for aspiring young farmers.
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Growing up, the 32-year-old was always fascinated by indigenous chickens and took care of them at home. This early exposure sparked her interest in agriculture, which was further fuelled by the high unemployment rate in South Africa.
With a clear vision and unwavering dedication, she embarked on her journey to establish a successful poultry farm.
Today, Makobela’s farm employs five people, with three permanent and two temporary staff members.
Her family, including her sister and mother, works closely with her to ensure the farm’s success. As the business grows, she hopes to employ more people, providing much-needed job opportunities in the community.
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The farm’s customer base is diverse, ranging from community members and backyard resellers to party hosts, funeral services, and street vendors.
Her products have even reached customers as far as Polokwane, a testament to her business’s potential for growth. However, Makobela warns aspiring farmers that the poultry industry is not without its challenges.
“Managing mortality rates and fluctuating feed prices are some of the biggest hurdles we face,” she told Limpopo Chronicle.
“But the most important thing is to have passion and love for what you’re doing. Don’t start farming just for the money; it’s the love for agriculture that will see you through the tough times.”
With her determination and resilience, Makobela has proven that even in remote areas, young entrepreneurs can succeed with hard work and dedication.
