Introduction

As a young boy growing up in the rural mountains of Ha Seeiso in Matelile, Mafeteng, Beleme Lebajoa dreamt of owning his own flock. That dream, born in the highlands, has grown into a thriving wool production business today known as Matelile Agri Business. Founded in 2019 with only 10 sheep, Lebajoa’s journey began with simple goals and limited resources. Though the sheep weren’t high-quality, their potential sparked his ambition.

The Turning Point

Everything changed when an agricultural extension officer visited his farm and introduced him to the Smallholder Agriculture Development Project II (SADP II). To qualify for SADP II matching grant, Lebajoa sold most of his flock to raise the M100,000 contribution a bold move that unlocked transformative support.

Transformation Through SADP II Support

With SADP II’s support, Matelile Agri Business received:

• A borehole for constant water supply
• A new sheep shed (capacity: 100)
• 40 improved ewes and 2 superior rams

Recognition & Community Impact

Within a year, Lebajoa’s rams were being sold to other farmers. His animals excelled at district and National wool shows winning multiple awards. Collaborations with local shearing sheds improved the wool output of the entire region.

Knowledge Sharing & Legacy Building

Matelile Agri Business now:

• Employs 3 permanent and 3 seasonal workers
• Runs workshops for farmers buying rams
• Offers training on feeding, disease control, and genetics

“I don’t just sell sheep, I transfer skills. That way, we all grow,” says Lebajoa.

Sustainable Practices

To reduce feed costs, the farm cultivates 88.4 hectares of maize mixed with minerals to feed livestock sustainably. He also emphasised that he cultivates neighbours’ fields and hay in their yards for his animals, and in return provides them with a certain percentage of the yield. “It’s financially wiser and gives me full control over quality,” he explains.

Vision for the Future

With dreams of building a fully independent wool production hub, Lebajoa is proof that dedication, coupled with the right support, can transform rural dreams into national impact. “Breeding takes time. But with support like SADP’s, the path is clearer and the results more tangible,” he reflects. Beleme Lebajoa’s journey is a reminder: with vision, sacrifice, and support, one shepherd can change the course of a community and leave a legacy in wool.