Drakenstein Correctional Services, a site of historical significance and transformation, hosted an enriching Broiler Farming Training Day on Tuesday, October 1st. This facility, renowned as the last prison to hold Nelson Mandela, continues to be a place of positive change, now nurturing skills and knowledge in the field of poultry farming.
Since 2006, Bellevue Chix has supplied day-old chicks to Drakenstein and Zonderwater prisons, supporting the correctional services’ self-sufficiency. The recent training, attended by 55 individuals including prisoners, Correctional Service Agriculture Division personnel, and Elsenburg Agriculture College trainees, focused on practical farming techniques to enhance productivity and rehabilitation.
Led by experts from Bellevue Chix, Nova Feeds, Nulaid, and consulting veterinarian Dr. Frank Travers, the session covered crucial topics like house preparation, brooding management, and biosecurity. The hands-on approach provided trainees with valuable insights to apply on the farm.
Special appreciation goes to Mr Norman Manyanga, Bellevue Chix Senior Manager: Breeders and Mr. Christiaan Lewis and Mr. Sam Mere from Drakenstein Prison for their pivotal roles in organizing this event. Such initiatives are instrumental in aiding the reintegration of individuals into society, proving that with the right support, everyone has the potential to grow and contribute positively to their communities.
We at Bellevue Chix are honoured to be part of this journey and look forward to the continued success of the programme.
The Training Day was attended by 55 people
Bellevue Chix team with the Drakenstein Prison Agriculture Division staff
The statue of Nelson Mandela that welcomes visitors to the Drakenstein Correctional Services Facility in Paarl
Lacton Mailula, Executive of the Quantum Foods Broilers division, sharing his knowledge and experience with the prisoners.
Thandu Mabusela from Nova Feeds presented a session on Taking House Measurements.
