In an effort to tackle youth unemployment and improve access to animal healthcare in rural communities, the Eastern Cape government has invested R512 000 to support 13 Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) in establishing their own Primary Animal Healthcare Facilities.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture’s Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute (TARDI). It follows legislative reforms introduced in 2022, which created a framework enabling AHTs to operate as private entrepreneurs, expanding access to animal health services while unlocking economic opportunities for graduates.
The 13 young beneficiaries form part of the first cohort trained at TARDI, where they received both technical animal health training and business development support. MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Nonkqubela Pieters, officially handed over starter kits to the entrepreneurs, equipping them to launch and manage their facilities.
The starter packs include essential tools such as animal branding kits, dosing guns, castration equipment, biosecurity gear, microscopes, mini fridges, and cooler boxes. These resources are expected to enhance service delivery and strengthen animal disease prevention at the community level.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, MEC Pieters described the initiative as a critical intervention that decentralises veterinary services, reduces costs and travel time for farmers, and improves early detection and management of livestock diseases.
One of the beneficiaries, Zimasa Qwayele from Alfred Nzo District, welcomed the support, noting that the equipment would enable her to operate a fully functional animal healthcare facility. She also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and its partners in equipping AHTs with the skills needed to run sustainable businesses.
Deputy Director-General for Agriculture, Mthozami Goqwana, emphasised that the programme plays a key role in transforming the agricultural sector. He noted that AHTs will also contribute to national efforts to combat diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease in collaboration with government and private veterinarians.
South African Veterinary Services CEO, Mongezi Menye, described the initiative as a milestone in transforming the veterinary sector. He pointed out that many qualified AHTs previously faced unemployment, despite the high demand for animal healthcare services in rural areas. He encouraged the technicians to measure their success through improved animal health and stronger support to farming communities.
The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening rural economies, improving livestock health, and creating sustainable employment opportunities for young professionals in the Eastern Cape.
Eastern Cape Invests R512 000 to Empower Young Animal Health Technicians
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