Thread by @JayMukanya

What are the key success factors for goat farming? The thread below are my own reflections on the key success factors in goat farming. I have farmed with Boers, KRs and Mashona goats. #ZimAgricRising #GOAT

Have a passion for goats. For me this is the biggest and most important aspect. I read every publication I can find on goat farming. I research issues. I talk to other goat farmers. I visit goat farms. I am on lots of goat farming groups. Talk, sleep, dream, think, read goats!!!

Choice of breed of goats. When you come to think of it, you want to own goats that are fertile, hardy, and very resistant to potential parasites that they might get in their environment. For me the best breed is the one that can do well in your environment.

Nutrition. Remember a goat farmer converts grass and trees into meat! I rank nutrition as one of the most important aspects to achieve this. You need to provide your goats with the best nutrition your money can buy as nutrition determines productivity and health of your flock.

Herd health. Knowing which diseases and parasites affect goats and how to control them is extremely important, so is knowing how to diagnose the diseases. Also have a reliable vet as part of your operations. Prevention is better than cure!! Its kinder to the pocket too.

General management. Managing your herd and how the different aspects that affect an enterprise is important. One aspect most overlooked here is managing the Human Resources aspects. Your herdman needs to share your vision. Incentivise them well!

Source of your breeding herd. I generally don’t buy goats from dealers. I want to buy my breeding stock direct from a breeder. Key is whether the breeder raises the goats in the way that will complement your own environment. Also choose breeders who provide after sales support.

Market. Although this is an important aspect, quality will always have a market so focus on breeding best quality goats. Quality also sells at a premium!!. I would rather have fewer excellent quality goats to sell than lots of inferior quality goats.

Choice of bucks. Buck selection is the main driver of ongoing genetic improvement in your herd. A doe during her breeding life will generally contribute 6–12 kids, whereas a buck contributes 60–100 kids per year. Get the best buck your money can buy.