The crowd erupted in cheers as 15-year-old Mohanoe Manyanye walked onto the stage to receive his award, first prize in dog breeding at this year’s Farmers Pitso Awards.
His bright smile told a story of hard work, patience and an unusual kind of farming passion, one that doesn’t sprout from the soil but wags its tail.
“I couldn’t believe it when I heard my name,” Mohanoe said proudly, clutching his certificate.
“It feels like a dream come true. This shows me I’m walking in the right direction.”
Sponsored by Makhaoane Eco Hygiene, this year’s Farmers Pitso celebrated innovation in animal breeding and Mohanoe, the youngest contestant, stole the hearts of many.
At just 15, he’s proving that farming has no age limit, only passion and dedication.
Mohanoe’s journey began in 2022, when he told his parents he wanted to rear dogs. Instead of dismissing his idea as a childish dream, his parents encouraged him and even finding him a mentor, Mr. Mochuku Chabalala, a seasoned dog breeder.
“My father went the extra mile. He spoke to ntate Chabalala and asked him to guide me. My mother supported me too, she even allowed me to turn our study room into a dog house,” Mohanoe recalled.
That moment marked the beginning of what would become a thriving dog breeding business in their yard.
Growing up surrounded by animals, Mohanoe was already drawn to caring for them.
“I grew up watching my father keep goats, pigs, chickens and cattle. So taking care of animals felt natural to me,” he said.
When he started, Mohanoe had just two dogs, but now he proudly owns eleven dogs, including cross breeds of Boerboel, Neapolitan Mastiff and St. Bernard.
He chose these breeds because of their friendliness, intelligence and their protective nature.
“Boerboels are loyal and strong, they’re farm guardians. They need exercise, grooming and care. I make sure they get all of that,” he explained.
Each day, Mohanoe feeds his dogs meat without bones, adds supplements, ensures clean water and keeps their shelter spotless. He even plays and talks with them to strengthen their bond.
“I love spending time with them. I brush their coats, talk to them and they know my voice,” he smiled. “They are like family.”
Behind his success lies a deep commitment to his dogs’ well-being. He consults his mentor regularly, keeps a strict feeding routine and monitors their health closely.
“My day starts early to make sure all dogs eat and drink before I go to school. In the evening, I feed them again.”
It’s that level of care that earned him back-to-back recognition at the Farmers Pitso Awards in both 2024 and 2025, making him one of the youngest consistent winners in the show’s history.
Like all farmers, Mohanoe’s path has not been without loss and challenges saying he has lost some dogs in his journey.
At the awards ceremony, his story inspired many other young attendees. Teachers and students alike watched in awe as the teenager spoke about his passion. “Seeing a 15-year-old winning an agricultural award changed how many young people viewed farming that day,” one teacher noted.
“Farming isn’t only about crops, you can raise animals, train them, and turn it into a business.” Mohanoe said confidently.
Today, Mohanoe sells some of his dogs to cover feed and care expenses. He also participates in dog races and competitions, which he says help him identify strengths and weaknesses in his breeds.
Looking ahead, he dreams of turning his small business into a large-scale breeding enterprise, supplying quality dogs across Lesotho and beyond.
“I want to become one of the best breeders in the country,” he said, his eyes sparkling with determination to see his business growing.
He ended his speech at the ceremony by thanking everyone who believed in him.
“To all who voted for me and sponsored the award — thank you. And to young people out there, farming isn’t old-fashioned. Find your strength, work on it, and success will follow.”
Mohanoe also offered some wisdom for aspiring breeders:
“Start with what you have. Even a local dog can become a great breed through selective breeding and proper care. You just need patience and knowledge.”
According to cultural historians, dogs have long been part of Basotho life — as herders’ companions, hunting partners, and home protectors. But as modern breeding practices evolve, young farmers like Mohanoe are helping shape Lesotho’s new generation of animal breeders.
As he dreams of expanding his kennels and exploring English Bulldogs next, Mohanoe stands as proof that farming dreams can begin anywhere — even in a teenage boy’s backyard.
“When I look at my dogs,” he said with a proud smile, “I see more than animals. I see my future.”
