In recent months, we have been receiving enquiries and interest from Muslims on getting into farming – particularly livestock and sheep farming. With an increasing number of Muslim owned organisations involved in meat production and distribution, the farming sector remained proportionately untapped by Muslims.
This article aims to provide a guide to prospective Muslim farmers who are looking to acquire the necessary information on farming and what it involves.
Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
DEFRA New Entrant scheme. There are initiatives at the government level aimed at encouraging people to take up farming as a profession. DEFRA is in the process of introducing policies to encourage more people into farming, dubbed the New Entrant Scheme. The New Entrant Scheme is due to be launched soon, further information is available on the following link:
https://defrafarming.blog.gov.uk/2022/06/01/a-fresh-start-for-new-entrants/
National Sheep Association (NSA)
The NSA is a great source of information for sheep farmers. NSA runs a paid-membership service which is available to all interested parties. The wealth of information and blogs on farming can be accessed on their website.
https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/next-generation/starting-your-own-flock/
The NSA also organises annual events for the farming sector. The next event is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 30th July 2024 at Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW (https://www.nationalsheep.org.uk/nsa-sheep-event/).
One of our founding members, Euro Quality Lambs (EQL), shall be in attendance and they have plans to showcase their products and interact with sheep farmers, livestock auctioneers and suppliers.
Muslim farmer mentors
There are a handful of Muslim farmers operating that may provide mentoring and important advice on livestock farming.
Abraham’s Natural Produce
https://www.instagram.com/abrahamorganics/
Harmony Farm (part of Abraham’s)
https://harmonyfarmstay.co.uk/about/.
Willowbrook Farm
https://www.instagram.com/willowbrookfarmers/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/Willowbrook.Farm.Oxford/?locale=en_GB
Pendle Pastures/Hijabi Shepherdess
https://www.facebook.com/p/Pendle-Pastures-100067589125092/
Zuss family
You may wish to contact them and see how their experience and guidance may inspire you.
Networking
Connect with Dr Awal Fuseini, senior halal sector manager at Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) Beef and Lamb (linkedin.com/in/awal-fuseini-phd-4b295748).
Join National Farmers Union (NFU) https://www.nfuonline.com
Attend livestock events like NSA Sheep events or NFU events https://nationalsheep.org.uk/events/