Faith Ndou
BEITBRIDGE-Mavron Keabetsoe Siziba, a 31-year-old soldier in the Zimbabwe National Army, never imagined that his love for goats would one day transform his life and community.
Born and raised in Dombolidenje village in Zezani, Beitbridge, Mavron’s journey into goat farming began modestly, yet with a vision that would grow into a thriving enterprise.
“I started goat farming in 2016 while I was working as an Early Childhood Development teacher at Whunga Primary,” he recalls.
“At that time, I didn’t have many needs and the only thing that made sense to spend my salary on was buying goats. I gave USD 200 to my uncle, Malima Maramani who was already a big livestock farmer, and he gave me six goats, five local Matebele goats and one Matebele buck.”
In 2017, Mavron pursued an National Certificate in Accountancy at Bulawayo Polytechnic College, a subject he had loved since high school. But life soon took a different turn.
“In March 2017, an opportunity to join the Zimbabwe National Army as a general duty soldier arose and I was attested in April 2017. I went through rigorous physical and mental training which I am grateful for even today and graduated in November 2017, and was posted to the 1 3 Infantry Battalion in Plumtree. At that time, I had completely forgotten about goats and was enjoying military life.”
By 2019, the challenges of city life and the struggling economy drew him back home.
“When I arrived, I had over 65 goats thanks to my father, who had taken care of them in my absence. During one of my off days, I took some of my older females and castrates to a show and earned over R30 000 that’s when I realized I was sitting on a platinum mine,” he says.
Despite setbacks including the loss of a young Boer buck in 2020 due to mismanagement, Mavron’s determination never wavered.
“Since then, every leave day, I went straight to Dombolidenje focusing all my efforts on goat farming,” he explains.
In 2023, with the help of the social services officer at 1 Infantry Brigade, he acquired land, built his own home and married a partner who understood his vision.
Mavron’s dedication soon bore fruit.
“I invested in two more quality bucks from South Africa and began buying and selling goats while learning from leading farmers like Mr. Kurunel Mukwena and Eric Sedima. I also improved my knowledge by reading, following farmers’ pages and attending trainings.”
“In October 2025, I attended a Junior Boer Goat course in Groblersdal, South Africa where I networked with leading farmers. In March 2026, I was recognized for my efforts and elected as a council member of the Goat Breeders Association of Zimbabwe.”
Running a farm while serving in the army posed unique challenges.
“The military is demanding but it offers good leave days,” Mavron explains.
“I needed a business I could run without being present, one that my wife and kids could manage in my absence. Goats were perfect for this, they take care of themselves and can support my family even if I am absent while on duty.”
Yet, the journey was not without difficulties. Theft claimed over 50 of his goats, diseases like foot and mouth and heartwater threatened his herd, predators such as hyenas and jackals took their toll, and limited communal grazing land restricted growth. Funding was another hurdle, preventing him from implementing advanced farming techniques.
Despite these obstacles, Mavron credits his military experience for helping him manage his farm effectively.
“Administration in the army has taught me discipline, resilience and how to manage people, tools and resources. These skills translate directly to managing my goats, tagging them, feeding them and supervising my helpers.”
Today, Mavron focuses on quality over quantity.
“I currently have 87 goats including Boer, Kalahari and local Matebele breeds. My love for goats, combined with the security they offer and the advantages of Beitbridge’s proximity to South Africa’s leading breeders, drives my passion. Goat meat is healthy and in high demand and the global market is big and growing.”
Diversification has also been key to his success. “We are into horticulture, selling butternuts, maize, watermelons and potatoes. We produce some of our own feed like lucerne and fodder grasses. Market research helps us source goats from other farmers and sell them at better prices.”
Mavron’s efforts have not only transformed his life but also benefited his community. “I employ local helpers, mentor other farmers, supply improved genetics and help find markets. Goat farming creates income, employment and improves health with organic meat. It also provides a sustainable retirement plan and enriches the land through manure use. Hides are sold for mats or leather production.”
On the secret to his success, Mavron emphasizes knowledge and passion. “Know what you want to breed, the type of breed and whether you are producing genetics or meat. Have enough land and water and ensure your feeding strategy aligns with your vision. Most challenges are manageable if you are determined and willing to learn from others.”
Looking ahead, Mavron envisions expanding his farm, offering goat training, tapping into export markets, constructing a dam for water and fish farming and even venturing into beekeeping to support crop pollination.
“My vision is to produce quality, healthy animals and improve the livelihoods of my community. Goat farming has changed my life and I am committed to taking it and the local industry to new heights.”
From a young teacher buying his first six goats with limited funds to a recognized council member of Zimbabwe’s Goat Breeders Association, Mavron Siziba’s journey is a testament to passion, resilience and the transformative power of agriculture.
Money is in farming.
