Big thanks to Heifer International South Africa for sharing this great example of what happens to a Heifer project after the Heifer staff people finisih working with the project members.
In 2005, Heifer International South Africa began providing the original 14 families of the Ramoshoane Agricultural Cooperative with laying hens and training on poultry management, egg production, basic business skills, and the Heifer Cornerstones. Now they have moved from household level food security activities to the beginnings of a commercial enterprise that will provide jobs for other unemployed people in the community. Years after the project began, the group still uses the Cornerstones every day to guide their business decisions and help them work together.
Sustainability is one of the Heifer Cornerstones. Ramoshoane is a great example of how projects can continue to grow even after they no longer require direct support from Heifer. Heifer's model involves providing material support to a group for a limited period of time, so, after a few years, Heifer exits each project, allowing the project members to take full ownership of the project and continue their successful farming and community development activities.
When the chickens they received from Heifer began laying eggs, Ramoshaone project members sold the eggs and saved money. As soon as they were able, project members Passed on the Gift, helping an additional 32 families. With the support of the Department of Agriculture, they are expanding into crop production and raising free-range chickens for eggs. They are also building a processing plant where eggs will be cleaned, packaged, and stored in a temperature-controlled room.
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Mr. Tshepo Sepuru (left) and Mr Richard Mathekga
show off their chickens |
The project members are happy with the way their project has developed over the years. Now they are looking to the youth to join them. "They mustn't go far... we are creating jobs for them, they must come and work here," is their message to the youth.
The members of Ramoshoane Agricultural Cooperative no longer need the assistance of Heifer International to feed their families and earn an income. Through the Heifer project model, they have become self-sufficient and are creating jobs and income-generating opportunities for other people, including young people, in their community.
