Maria David
LIVESTOCK remains an essential tool for farmers in most parts of the Ohangwena Region, where donkeys are primarily used for ploughing.
In Omungwelume, it is common to see someone busy with donkeys or oxen ploughing the mahangu fields, with activity often extending to the fields across the road.
Onesmus Amwili, a resident of Ombalala village, explained that farmers in the area lack the financial resources to pay for tractors to plough their fields. The little income they generate is used to purchase school supplies for their children as the school term approaches.
“The tractors provided by the Ministry of Agriculture or private owners are too expensive to hire,” he said.
Amwili further noted that using oxen and donkeys for ploughing often results in better yields compared to tractors, which can damage the fields and lead to poor harvests.
Another farmer, Ambali Kangwiya, highlighted that while using livestock is the most affordable method, it comes with its own challenges.
“You need to train the animals to plough, and sometimes they are not ready. Injuries can also occur when donkeys or oxen act stubborn and kick,” he said.
Kangwiya added that hiring a tractor is not a feasible option for many farmers due to the high cost. “The money we earn from labouring is used to meet household needs, and it is never enough,” he explained.
He emphasized that traditional agriculture remains their best option. “When we complete the work early, we are assured of a good harvest eventually,” Kangwiya concluded.
