In the heart of Mahikeng, a culinary sensation known as "Tshotlho" has become a local favourite. The culinary is now attracting meat enthusiasts from across the country. The epicentre of this culinary delight is the Caltex garage located on Vryburg Road in Mahikeng. At Caltex, the culinary focus centres exclusively on the renowned beef “Tshotlho”.
This traditional dish, often reserved for special occasions like weddings and funerals, undergoes a slow and meticulous cooking process that magically transforms tougher cuts of meat into a delectable delicacy. However, it's not just the delectable Tshotlho making waves; it's the unique twist it's taken that's sparking interest far and wide.
Mompati Kgomanyane-Modimogale, a donkey farmer in Mahikeng, has ventured into donkey meat, specialising in "donkey tshotlho", biltong, and braaied donkey meat. Setting his sights high, Modimogale aspires to establish a donkey meat butchery and even a cosmetics manufacturing plant. Inspired by the commercial success of donkey meat in neighbouring Botswana, he proudly sells donkey biltong and “donkey tshotlho”, a dish reminiscent of pulled pork.
Modimogale firmly believes that donkey products offer culinary delights and hold the key to nutritional and medical benefits. He envisions a brighter future for villagers in South Africa's North West Province through the resurgence of this industry. Regarding the vital role donkeys have historically played in the livelihoods of marginalised households, Modimogale emphasises that these animals provide income, support, and essential economic contributions. Yet, their significance has often been overlooked in favour of other industries.
Modimogale currently manages a thriving herd of 50 donkeys on his farm. He sees the future success of his venture in the high nutritional value of donkey meat and milk. Although donkey milk may not be an everyday beverage, it is believed to offer significant cosmetic benefits, which has created moisturising creams, soaps, and shampoos using this unique ingredient.
Despite his passion and determination, Modimogale faces challenges, including needing a regulatory framework and the necessary funding to drive the donkey industry forward. However, he firmly believes that once this industry is successfully commercialised, it will play a crucial role in uplifting the rural population, particularly those in villages where donkeys are a shared asset. "I believe that once it has been commercialised, it will assist our people staying in villages because most people in rural areas own donkeys.
The other reason I would like to see this happen is that maybe people will start giving donkeys the respect they deserve," Modimogale passionately asserts. With four employees, two at the farm and two at the "chisanyama", a venture not yet operational due to legal issues, Modimogale is taking steps to turn his vision into a reality.
As the donkey industry in South Africa works to overcome regulatory hurdles and secure the necessary investment, Modimogale's vision stands as a beacon of hope. It illuminates the path to a brighter and more prosperous future, not only for farmers but also for the donkeys themselves. With innovation and determination, the donkey industry in the North West Province may soon find its rightful place in the country's economic landscape, offering newfound opportunities and respect for these remarkable animals.
