Boran: converting low-quality feed into high-quality protein

As a diversified farmer whose primary focus is grain, Leon van Tonder doesn't have much time to worry about his cattle. He spoke to Lindi Botha about why introducing Boran cattle into his herd was the best decision he has ever made, and how this beef breed complements his crop-production division.

- Lindi Botha

Animals jumping fences is a common pitfall in farming. However, one such incident turned out to be a boon for neighbouring cattle producers in Davel, Mpumalanga, when a Boran bull from renowned stud farmers Jarren and Simeon Hurwitz made his way into Leon van Tonder's mixed Simbra herd, impregnating a cow.

Van Tonder was so impressed with the calves that were born nine months later, that he not only decided to convert his herd to Borans, but subsequently purchased several bulls from the Hurwitzes. "The Boran cows conceive quickly and the calves fatten up well on the veld. They are incredibly low-maintenance, as they are hardy and don't need to be pampered," says Van Tonder, owner of Remhoogte farm.

While this East African breed has a smaller frame than its European counterparts, Van Tonder has found that he is able to generate a greater profit per hectare, even though the price for the smaller weaners is obviously lower.

"If I had to run a textbook cattle division, feeding and dosing the animals according to industry standards, I would be out of business. To make this division work vel drina zon Breyton Ermelo Ar for me, I had to look at the ideal recipe, and then see how I could adapt it to lower my costs yet still keep the cattle in good shape," he says.

"The biggest expense on a livestock farm is feed. However, I realised that if I didn't have to make or provide feed for my cattle, and they could live solely off the natural veld alone and still put on weight, it would be a win for me. A livestock farmer's greatest asset is an animal that can convert low-quality veld into good-quality protein. And that's the Boran!"

THE EARLY DAYS