Family inspires farmer

A part-time farmer from the Kamanjab constituency says the perseverance and passion of his mother and brother inspire him to farm every day. Vladimir Losper, who farms at Gainatseb near Fransfontein, is a registered Landrace pig producer, raising the animals for breeding stock as well as live pigs for slaughter. He also produces commercial Boer goats and cattle for domestic auctions. According to Agribank, Losper was born into livestock farming, and his passion for farming never left him.His mother’s side of the family consists of many successful farmers, he said. "My late grandfather was a successful cattle and goat farmer, and that was a big inspiration to us."Childhood dreamLosper bought his first goats in 2018 and hasn’t looked back since.He said piggery production has always been a childhood dream of his. He acquired four two-month-old piglets in May 2021 to start the business. With regards to cattle farming, he explained he was privileged to be born as a farmer who received a few cows to start with. Farming has taught him patience, Losper said. "Livestock farming is a long-term investment with no easy or quick returns. The losses have thickened my skin while simultaneously making me more focused and driven for success."ChallengesWhen asked about challenges, Losper mentioned a lack of capital to expand his farming resources. He has, however, recently applied for a loan at Agribank to purchase more cattle. Other challenges include the ever-increasing cost of animal feed and transport, as well as challenges associated with the seasons, such as parasites, the cold and drought, he said.The farmer described some of his best experiences as when his sows farrowed their first piglets and when he passed his junior training course at the Namibia BoerGoat Breeder Society, because he aspired to be a stud breeder. Collaborate as a teamHowever, he said nothing beats the feeling of selling his own products and making a handsome profit. "All farmers - young and old, regardless of race or tribe - need to collaborate. We need to work together to grow the industry even further. To the youth who wish to start farming, do proper research before you start, then follow your heart and always keep records of everything to keep track of your progress."Most important, he said, is to practice financial discipline and reinvest from your own revenue to grow herd size and quality.

Family inspires farmer

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Republikein 2025-07-17

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Family inspires farmer

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Republikein 2025-07-17

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