Kushtia:A devastating brain haemorrhage forced Rakibul Islam to shut down his thriving buffalo farm, but his determination to overcome adversity led him to a new venture in dumba farming, reviving hopes for financial independence.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rakibul, 36, a resident of Sahebnagar village in Mirpur upazila, Kushtia, began buffalo farming nearly a decade ago. However, a brain haemorrhage in March 2023 left him partially paralyzed, making it impossible to continue. Determined to find a less physically demanding source of income, Rakibul explored dumba farming after learning about it from an acquaintance.
Rakibul purchased a pair of dumba sheep to start his new venture. Since early 2024, his farm has grown to 15 dumba, and he has sold six adult sheep for Taka 12 lakh. The Arabian sheep require low production costs and are fed with readily available fodder. Female sheep give birth twice a year, further expanding the farm.
Dr. Md Abdullahil Kafi, the Mirpur Upazila Livestock Extension Officer, highlighted the profitability of small-scale sheep farming, encouraging unemployed youths to consider such ventures. Rakibul's story is an inspiring example of how determination can help overcome physical limitations and lead to new opportunities.