The first-ever livestock auction was held at Rooidak Gate in the Tsumkwe Constituency over the weekend.

The auction, hosted by Shaduka Trading, focused exclusively on cattle; other livestock categories may be introduced in the future.

Farmers from across the constituency turned out in large numbers to buy and sell cattle, while others attended to observe the process, gain experience, and learn more about how livestock auctions operate.

An organiser, Immanuel Shaduka, explained.

"I have been coming here as a buyer for a long time to purchase cattle. While I was studying, I realised that the people here were suffering because they did not have a market for their livestock. That made me think that perhaps I should become an auctioneer here so they would have a market where they could sell their animals."

He said that the only challenge is that people don't understand auctions.

Shaduka noted that private buyers often do not offer competitive prices, but auctions help sellers secure better prices through competitive bidding.

The Tsumkwe Constituency Councillor Petrus Mutji said that it is very important to host these livestock auctions, as it helps local farmers that cannot sell their animals elsewhere.

"It benefits our local farmers by providing them with fair market prices. They can bring their cattle and participate in this auction, where they receive direct financial support through immediate payment. Instead of having to travel elsewhere to find a market, the market is now right here."

The event provided a valuable platform for farmers to market their cattle, connect with buyers, and exchange knowledge.

Senior Councillor of the !Kung Traditional Authority Auho Kavetene expressed his appreciation to the organisers.

"I'm very happy for this livestock auction. This is a good initiative, and it's part of development. It's the first time in the constituency, but we want it to go forward.”

A resident of Tsukwe, Mukonda Adam, had this to say.

“This is an opportunity for people who rely solely on cattle for their livelihood. They can now sell some of their cattle and use the money to buy fuel to pump water for their livestock.”

The successful turnout highlights the growing interest in organised livestock marketing and the important role such initiatives can play in supporting farmers in the Tsumkwe Constituency.

About 120 cattle were sold at the auction.