Sustainable Fur
Sustainability
Swakara is a robust breed, able to thrive despite the dry desert conditions in the southern parts of Namibia. In some parts of the country, conditions are so harsh that no other livestock or crop can be cultivated but Swakara. In that sense, Swakara is a shining example of how Namibia has worked with rural communities to provide both employment and resources. Contrary to what one might think, all parts of the Swakara sheep are used and nothing goes to waste. Besides fur, Swakara sheep provide meat, wool, and leather to rural communities.
Swakara is a high-quality eco fur, highly regarded as a long-term investment in terms of style and durability.
Farming Ethics
Swakara farmers in Namibia comply to strict ethical principles designed to enhance the welfare of swakara sheep. By adhering to these principles, Namibian farmers are committed to the highest moral standards regarding animal welfare. This means that the pelting process of swakara lambs is done in the most humane way possible. The ‘Code of Practice for Swakara Farmers,’ which is compulsory for all Swakara farmers, is registered with the International Fur Federation (IFF). The swakara brand is also striving to achieve the Fur Europe WelFur label.
Testimonial
Timm Miller
Swakara Farmer
One of the most difficult challenges is farming successfully in harmony with an array of predators.
The Swakara sheep breed enables me to farm successfully in the escarpment on the edge of the Namib Desert. Here I have to deal with erratic rainfall and extremely sensitive but very diverse ecology. The Swakara sheep fits perfectly into this harsh environment because of its many adaptive traits and characteristics that have evolved through centuries of survival in desert and semi desert environments.
These traits and characteristics enable me to farm sustainably and in harmony with the ecological challenges the environment offers. One of the most difficult challenges is farming successfully in harmony with an array of predators.
Together with 8 permanent employees and their dependents we can make a living off this often dry and unforgiving land. Thanks to the Swakara sheep I can fulfil my goal of being a successful and sustainable eco-friendly farmer.
I am proud to produce a number of sustainable, natural and biodegradable products from free-ranging animals, whilst adhering to strict internationally accepted animal welfare regulations.