Nampo Alfa: Insights on Livestock and Breeding with BKB

This executive summary provides a snapshot of the discussion, focusing on BKB's role in the agricultural sector, their services, and key advice for successful livestock farming.

BKB's Core Business and Impact:

• Historical Foundation: BKB originated from representing small stock, including wool and later Angora goats.
• Market Leadership: For over 110 years, BKB has been a leading broker for both wool (BKB Wool) and mohair (House of Fiber), with House of Fiber being the largest mohair broker globally. BKB is also a leading wool broker internationally.
• Livestock Auctions: BKB is one of the largest livestock auction companies in the country, conducting approximately six auctions per day on every working day.
• Advisory Services: BKB employs a team of sheep and goat advisors with a nationwide footprint to assist commercial and stud breeders with advice and support to accurately identify superior breeding animals.

Key Initiatives and Programs:

• DSS Program: BKB officially launched the DSS (Data-driven Selection System) program, a scientifically-founded selection program designed to accurately identify and promote superior breeding animals. This program is a collaboration with SA Stamboek and is led by Hannelet Jordaan, supported by Benjamin Jber, who brings extensive practical and scientific knowledge.
• Expansion: The DSS program is currently focused on small stock but is planned to expand to large stock as well. It is seen as a long-term program because breeding is a long-term business where genetic progress is not made overnight.

Philosophy and Vision:

• Client Success: BKB believes that its success is intertwined with the success of its clients, aiming to secure the best prices for them.
• Data and Science-Driven Future: The future of livestock breeding is seen as increasingly driven by data and scientific methods.
• Economic Sustainability: The goal is to make the wool and mohair industry economically sustainable moving forward, especially given the unpredictable nature of international markets and global challenges.

Practical Advice for Breeders:

1. "Happy Medium" Principle: Opt for medium-sized animals for optimal balance in attributes like feed efficiency, space, and overall performance. This applies to sheep (ewes that lamb annually) and cattle (cows that calve annually), emphasizing self-sufficiency.
2. Avoid Extremes: Steer clear of extremely large or small animals, as they are often not the most desirable in practice.
3. Combine Science and Practical Knowledge: Understand the scientific research in animal breeding but also value and listen to the practical experience of older breeders.
4. Focus on the "Big Picture": Don't get overly concerned with minor, non-economic details ("small stuff") in breeding. Prioritize economically significant traits, such as efficient meat production or top-quality wool production. Let economics guide breeding decisions.
5. Breed Choice: All breeds are good. Choose a breed that you like, that "speaks to you," and that is well-adapted to your specific environment. Avoid unnecessary animosity between different breed enthusiasts; rather, learn from each other.
6. "Magic in Numbers": Having a sufficient number of animals allows for stricter selection, leading to faster progress in breeding. Ensure good reproduction rates.
7. Enjoy the Process: Success in breeding is strongly linked to enjoying what you do. If breeding doesn't bring satisfaction, consider commercial farming or a different path.
8. Invest in Facilities: Well-designed facilities enhance efficiency, reduce animal injuries, and improve the overall working environment.
9. Continuous Learning: The industry is constantly evolving, so breeders must remain "students" and continuously learn and improve.
10. Respect and Contribution: Respect show rules and traditions. Breeders should see themselves as working for the broader breed industry, making a positive contribution beyond their own farm.
11. Consumer Focus: Always remember that the consumer is king, queen, and jack. Ethical practices, animal welfare, and traceability are crucial for market acceptance and long-term sales.
12. Personal Attention: Despite advanced programs and facilities, there is no substitute for a farmer's personal attention, intuition, knowledge, and care for their animals. Happy animals are productive animals.

Role of Agricultural Shows:

• Shows like Bloemskou play a significant role in the development of children, including those with disabilities, by fostering self-respect, self-esteem, and self-confidence through responsibility for animal care.
• BKB actively participates in these shows as a partner, with technical advisors acting as judges and ring stewards, sharing in the success of these important agricultur