Thinking of farming Afrikaners? Here's what you should know

Free State cattle farmer Jannie Visagie spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel about the resilience, adaptability, and economic benefits of the Afrikaner cattle breed. He shares valuable insights and practical advice for farmers considering this hardy breed for South African conditions.

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As South Africa’s agriculture sector adapts to changing climate conditions, rising input costs, and increasing demand for sustainable beef production, some farmers are revisiting traditional livestock breeds known for their hardiness and efficiency. The Afrikaner cattle breed, with its deep local roots and unmatched resilience, can be a contender for modern beef systems.

Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Free State farmer and Afrikaner breeder Jannie Visagie, who farms on 7 500ha of natural veld, says the time has come to reconsider this indigenous beef breed not only for its historical value, but for its economic and environmental advantages.

“The Afrikaner is one of the toughest breeds you can run. They might not be as popular as some exotic breeds in the feedlot market, but when it comes to surviving heat, drought and veld conditions, nothing beats them,” he says.

TOUGH TRAITS FOR TOUGH CONDITIONS

According to Visagie, the Afrikaner breed originates from the indigenous Sanga cattle of Southern Africa and has been bred over centuries to suit local environments. With their characteristic red coats and strong frames, they are well adapted to both high temperatures and limited grazing.

“Afrikaner cattle don’t struggle in extreme heat. Our bulls cover cows just as well in summer as they do in winter. We see no drop in conception rate during the warmer months,” says Visagie.

He added that their performance during drought is equally impressive. “I once spoke to a farmer in Namibia during a bad drought. He said the Afrikaner cows got thinner but didn’t die. They kept going, even when other breeds gave up,” says Visagie.

A NATURAL FIT FOR EXTENSIVE SYSTEMS

According to Visagie, one of the Afrikaner’s strongest advantages is its suitability for extensive veld-based production systems.