7 July 2009
FOR Namibian cattle farmers, winter time is the busiest time of the calendar as it is the time when calves are weaned and auctioned off to feed lots.
The auctions are a popular marketing platform to farmers where they can network with sellers and buyers.
"Last year, a total of 12 800 calves were sold on the weaner auctions with an average price of N$2 781 per animal," the agricultural cooperative Agra said on Friday. "At this year's weaner auctions we expect quality animals again which will fetch good prices," said Patrick van der Westhuizen, Agra's operations manager for livestock. He added that the past good rainy season would result in heavier weaners and that demand for the animals is expected to be high.
Weaner calf competitions will add to the excitement of the auctions and will reward producers of good quality animals. Judging of the weaner calves will be done by professionals, according to Agra. "Optimal weaning weights, good growth potential under feed lot, free range conditions and applied animal husbandry - such as dehorning, brand marking and animal health - will earn good points and fetch good prices," Van der Westhuizen said.
The Agra livestock division provides professional services and expert advice to assist farmers with the production of weaning calves, which includes selection and preparation of high quality animals.
Weaner auctions for this month are at Saambou near Gobabis (July 15), Hinda near Gobabis (July 20), Tweerivier/Gobabis (27 July), Otjinene (July 28), Imkerhof (July 29) and Otjiwarongo (July 30).
Be the first to Write a Comment!
Copyright © 2009 The Namibian. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.
AllAfrica aggregates and indexes content from over 125 African news organizations, plus more than 200 other sources, who are responsible for their own reporting and views. Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica.
