Farming is often regarded as a noble profession that demands a unique set of qualities, including a profound appreciation for the land and animals and a steadfast commitment to hard work. Thamsanqa Ramosotho, an alumnus of the North-West University (NWU), embodies these attributes and has the qualifications to match.

He holds a diploma in agriculture and animal sciences and a BScHons in animal sciences from the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, as well as a qualification in new venture creation from the NWU Business School.

In 2010, following the passing of his father, Thamsanqa started farming on communal land with an initial herd of 20 breeding cows. Presently, he oversees a total of 87 cows and heifers, which include two stud bulls of the Simbra and Bonsmara breeds, as well as one young Brahman bull. He also farms with sheep, goats, turkeys, chickens and ducks.

Before his full-time engagement in farming, he dedicated 24 months to working with unemployed agricultural graduates and completed three months as an agricultural practitioner. Subsequently, he chose to pursue farming as a full-time career.

"I am currently operating on communal land; however, I have participated in several interviews for the government's land lease programme since 2021. I remain optimistic that I will secure a farm in the future," says Thamsanqa.

North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, recently handed over 30 pregnant heifers and a bull to Thamsanqa as a beneficiary of the Department’s Unemployed Agricultural Graduates Programme. The handover was graced by the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Nokuzola Capa, and took place on 22 November 2024 at Lekung Village just outside Mahikeng.

Thamsanqa Ramosotho.

Some of the pregnant Bonsmara heifers that Thamsanqa received from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.