Building a goat farming revolution in Yumbe District

Yumbe: In the heart of Yumbe District, a group of determined farmers is transforming goat breeding through innovation and resilience at YAI Mixed Farm.

What began as a small savings group of eight members including a refugee has grown into a thriving livestock enterprise. With support from Palladium, the group ventured into goat farming with just 10 local goats. Today, the farm boasts over 80 goats, including 30 does and 50 bucks.

According to one of the farm directors, Mr. Taban Rashid, the journey reflects dedication and learning. He shared this during the WIIGOT media training tour, which brought together journalists from West Nile, Lango, Acholi, and Kiryandongo regions to the farm located in Pitya Village, Kulacha Parish.

A key innovation at the farm is crossbreeding. By combining local goat breeds with exotic varieties such as the Boer goat and Savanna goat, farmers are producing high-quality hybrid goats suited for both meat and milk production.

Mr. Linkoline, a goat-rearing expert working with Climate Smart Jobs, explained that achieving a pure, improved breed takes four to five generations. He added that goats have a gestation period of five months and a heat cycle of 18 to 21 days key knowledge that helps farmers plan breeding effectively.

To ensure proper management, the farm is divided into specialized sections, including maternity, kids, weaners, and mature goats. This structured system allows for better care, feeding, and disease control.

Farmers at YAI Mixed Farm have also embraced best practices such as proper feeding, vaccination, and selective breeding, making twinning increasingly common. This not only boosts production but also improves profitability.

“Improved breeds mean better milk, quality meat, and a ready market,” one farmer noted, emphasizing the economic benefits of modern goat farming.

Support from Palladium has played a significant role in empowering the group, helping them turn their vision into reality and contributing to the growing pride in locally produced livestock under the “Made in Uganda” banner.

YAI Mixed Farm’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, innovation, and community transformation. As the group continues to expand, the future of goat farming in Yumbe District looks increasingly promising.

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