Limpopo Farmers Feast on 30 Donated Cows Instead of Launching Farming Project
SOUTH AFRICA – A government-backed agricultural initiative took an unexpected turn after beneficiaries consumed the 30 cows awarded to them, turning the project into a large-scale community braai.
The livestock, donated through a partnership between a non-governmental organization and the Department of Agriculture, was meant to support local farmers in breeding, milk production and sustainable agriculture.
However, instead of developing a livestock farming enterprise, the recipients hosted a large-scale cookout, treating the cattle as a short-term benefit rather than a long-term investment.
Community spokesperson Fanie Malatji explained that the cattle were viewed as an investment opportunity, though there was misunderstanding about the program’s intended purpose.
“We were told these cows were an investment, so we made sure to get quick returns,” he said while grilling meat over open flames.
Another resident, casually sipping a soft drink near a smoker filled with brisket, remarked that they understood the cattle were meant for breeding but saw an immediate benefit in consuming them.
“Yes and we bred them… with spices,” he joked.
By the time agriculture officials arrived to assess progress, the livestock had already been consumed.
Officials, arriving too late to intervene, were instead handed doggy bags and received praise for the seasoning.
With DJ “Beefmaster T” playing hits like ‘Ngiyavuma (Meat Is Life),’ the gathering was less an agricultural milestone and more a celebration of flame-grilled beef.
According to The News Vine South Africa, the beneficiaries have since been barred from future livestock projects due to mismanagement.
However, their unexpected success in hosting a large-scale cookout has drawn the attention of catering companies, who have proposed a nationwide braai tour under the brand “From Farm to Flame.”
The Department of Agriculture has responded by introducing a new training module titled “Not All Cows Are Braai-Ready,” aimed at preventing similar incidents in future empowerment programs.
Despite criticism, the community remains optimistic. “For future projects, chickens might be a better option,” Malatji joked.
