Letinhle's Goat-Powered Future
Sixteen-year-old Letinhle's heart races with excitement as she watches her goats graze in the golden afternoon sun. Life in the small community of Ngwavuma has never felt so promising. Thanks to a helping hand from the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) and World Vision Eswatini, Letinhle’s world is changing, one bleat at a time.
The Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) Project, aims to uplift vulnerable communities by providing sustainable resources and opportunities. The goat farming project, implemented by World Vision Eswatini’s Livelihoods Technical Programme, with funding from the the country’s public power and energy provider, is an initiative that is part of World Vision’s broader campaign to ensure that children have enough — enough food, education, and opportunities to thrive.
In March of this year (2024), Letinhle received two goats through the EEC goat farming project, through the Ngwavuma area Programme, supported by World Vision Germany. These goats, symbolic of hope and potential, have since given birth to five kids. Although one tragically passed away, the remaining four are growing well and promise a brighter future for Letinhle and her family.
“It was like God had answered my daily prayers. I have always prayed for a breakthrough for me and my family, so when my Youth Facilitator informed me that I was getting goats, I was so happy,” Letinhle explains.
Letinhle’s family of eight struggles daily. With no father and an unemployed mother, their primary source of food and support comes from Letinhle’s sister, who works as a domestic worker in Malkerns. Despite these hardships, Letinhle remains resilient and optimistic. The goats she received have sparked a vision of a better life.
The goats are more than just animals to Letinhle; they are a stepping stone to financial independence and stability. She dreams of expanding her goat-rearing activities into a commercial venture, which would significantly improve her family's circumstances. This ambition reflects World Vision’s impact, showing how a single act of support can generate substantial change.
“My sister helps me take care of my goats. After school, I ensure they sleep inside the kraal at home; my sister takes them out at 1pm. I know these goats will multiply and I genuinely cannot wait to sell one to my first customer. That will officially make me a Goat Farmer!” she says, chuckling.
Letinhle’s aspirations extend beyond goat-rearing. She aims to become a Science teacher, a goal fuelled by her desire to make a difference not just in her own life, but in the lives of others. She hopes that her growing goat business will provide the means to pay for her education and help her family meet their basic needs.
Through initiatives like the EEC Project, World Vision Eswatini continues to make meaningful strides in improving the lives of vulnerable children, reaffirming its commitment to a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.