Farming for the good of SA
A Zuurbekom farmer is proud to have made a difference in many people's lives.
After acquiring the farm in 1998 from government, Simon Mathysen of Westonaria, owner of the Water pan IQ farm of potion 292, in Westonaria, decided to farm livestock.
Today he says he is proud to have made a difference in many lives, as he alleviated poverty by creating jobs. Mathysen, who is also a business owner, currently employs 15 people on his farm.
He trades in cattle, sheep, goats and race horses, and breeds these animals. He said he is determined to help strengthen the economy, and he knows what to do with his land.
“I knew what I wanted to use it for, for farming. I wanted to be a part of the farming fraternity because I wanted to create jobs.
He said the importance of improving the livestock is all about recognising the individual properties of each animal that will bring huge benefits to a farmer.
“I breed two different types of horses, wild horses and race horses. I make sure that they are fed enough and examine them to find out whether they are ready for the market,” he said.
“I like to consider myself a jack of all trades, as I also grow mealies and sunflowers. I have also created a swan lake. I have a new business plan now in which I will be starting a feed lot. This is a way for me to expand the business as I chip in to make sure that the economy grows”.
He said 60 per cent of people he employed are male, as farm work usually relies on physical work.
He decried crime and said after 46 of his cattle were stolen last year, he said he decided to keep a minimum number of not more than 100.
“Farmers are affected by crime and we want to work with the police to ensure that it is completely stopped,” he added.
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