Midlands farmers are being urged to donate one animal to a special fundraising livestock sale in Tullamore Mart on Monday 28 September, with all proceeds going to Self Help Africa.

The Midlands Farmers for Africa appeal, organised by Offaly farmer Pat Mahon, is calling on farmers, marts and agribusinesses to back the initiative by donating a calf, weanling, heifer, bullock, cow or other suitable animal aged at least three months.

Mahon said the response from farmers across the Midlands has been encouraging, but is urging more people to get involved.

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"Farmers have always looked after one another. If every farmer who can help donates one suitable animal, together we can change hundreds of lives," he said.

Tullamore Mart

The sale has the backing of Tullamore Mart and the Irish Farmers' Association, with the mart waiving its fees and transferring all proceeds directly to Self Help Africa.

The charity, supported by Irish Aid, works with farming communities across Africa by providing improved livestock breeding, veterinary services, climate-smart agriculture and training to help families become more self-reliant.

Self Help Africa's Ronan Scully said the fundraiser will provide practical support rather than handouts.

"People don't ask for charity – they ask for opportunity. They ask for the chance to work, to grow food, to care for their families and to build a future with dignity," he said.

The appeal covers counties Offaly, Laois, Westmeath, Kildare, Carlow, Kilkenny, north Tipperary, Meath, Longford, Roscommon and east Galway, with collection available for donated animals.

To donate an animal, contact Pat Mahon on 083-423-8887 or patjoemahon@outlook.com.

For more information, visit Self Help Africa's midlands fundraiser page.