Following the success of the water project then the library project we discussed a new venture with the school teachers, committee and local leaders. It was obvious that some form of food security was necessary in the local community as Swaziland has a history of drought resulting in food shortages.

In other parts of Swaziland there have been projects at schools, supported by the Government, to keep small herds of dairy cattle. Swaziland is largely reliant on South Africa for much of its dairy produce, a situation the Government is keen to change as it is achievable for the country to become self sufficient in those products. We looked into it further and established that it would bring some major benefits to the area over time and to that end we financed the laying and fencing of the pasture. This has taken time to become established, you can’t rush nature! When we visited last year we discussed the main issues with all concerned, we need to know that the project will be viable, manageable and sustainable before we commit to the major expense and work involved.

We discussed building a house at the back of the school for a herdsman and family. Not only would this keep the project centralised but it would be added security in general for the school. The disused shower block is to be converted to the milking parlour as it has strong concrete and metal construction and is largely unused. This will mean that the hand wash facility for the children will need to be re-sited before the main project gets under way. (More digging!) We are currently fund-raising to buy the cattle.

The dairy scheme will bring an income to the school from sale of the milk and young animals. Some of the milk will be used for needy pupils at the school. The herd will grow and production increase. The budget drawn up by the Area Agricultural Officer included some feed purchase to supplement the pastures, wages, basic equipment and vets expenses. Artificial Insemination is available through the local government department so there is no need to have a bull.

There will be plenty of opportunity for the school pupils to learn about animal husbandry and put it into practise.

If you would like to donate to the dairy project, please email chairman@communityfriendship.org.uk for more details.