In Spain, migrants are saving sheep farms by taking over shepherding
## Government Initiative for Training Migrant Shepherds
Government Initiative for Training Migrant Shepherds
In rural Spain, sheep farms face a shortage of employees willing to engage in shepherding. To address this issue and provide employment opportunities for recent migrants, a government program is training newly arrived migrants, predominantly from African countries, as shepherds. This initiative supports local farms, which rely on these workers for herding animals that produce central Spain’s renowned sheep’s milk cheese.
The region of Castile-La Mancha, known for its historical significance, is experiencing depopulation challenges that impact traditional shepherding roles. The initiative aims to fill this void by training migrants, including those from Venezuela and Afghanistan, to contribute to the agricultural sector.
The training program, funded by the regional government, offers a five-day course covering the fundamentals of shepherding. Participants learn essential skills such as managing flocks and operating milking equipment. Upon completion, and if authorized to work, participants can apply for positions on local farms.
In rural Spain, sheep farms face a shortage of employees willing to engage in shepherding.
Since 2022, approximately 460 students have participated, with 51 employed as shepherds and others working in related agricultural roles. The program also collaborates with organizations like the International Red Cross to connect migrants with training opportunities.
The involvement of migrants is crucial to preventing the closure of livestock farms in the region. The lack of interest among young Spaniards in rural employment, combined with a shortage of skilled workers, poses a significant threat to the sustainability of these businesses. Migrants like Osam Abdulmumen, who earn salaries slightly above the minimum wage, play a pivotal role in maintaining the agricultural infrastructure.
Without the support of trained migrant workers, many livestock farms face the risk of closure in the coming years, highlighting the importance of continued investment in such training programs to sustain rural agriculture.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
