By Matsobane Manaka and Jimmy Cigna
For good, health and quality yields, cotton requires temperatures of above 25 degrees.
Groblersdal, December 4, 2024 - In a significant milestone for the agricultural sector in Limpopo, 29 farmers from the Sekhukhune West Agro-Ecological Zone have successfully completed a comprehensive four-week cotton training program. The program aimed to equip farmers with the skills and knowledge needed to improve cotton production and productivity.
The training program was synchronized with the growth stages of the cotton crop and consisted of four modules, each dealing with a critical aspect of cotton production. The modules included financing of cotton, land preparation, pests and weeds control, and cotton marketing.
The 29 farmers who completed the training program were awarded certificates of completion, marking a significant achievement in their journey to become successful cotton farmers. Dr. Khathu Tshikolomo, Director for Crop Science at the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD, congratulated the graduates on their achievement and encouraged them to apply their knowledge and skills to improve cotton production in their communities.
The successful completion of the cotton training program marks a new era for cotton production in the Sekhukhune West Agro-Ecological Zone. With their newfound skills and knowledge, the graduates are well-equipped to improve their cotton production and contribute to the growth and development of the agricultural sector in Limpopo.
Dr. Tshikolomo's address at the ceremony emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration in driving growth and development in the agricultural sector. He noted that technology can help farmers improve their yields, reduce their costs, and enhance their productivity.
"I urge you all to make use of technology for production purposes, technology can help you improve your yields, reduce your costs, and enhance your productivity. It is essential that we embrace technology and use it to drive growth and development in the agricultural sector," said Dr. Tshikolomo.
The graduation ceremony was attended by a range of stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, policymakers, and representatives from the private sector. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices in cotton production, and to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
In conclusion, the graduation of the 29 cotton farmers marks a significant milestone in the development of the cotton industry in Limpopo. The event was a testament to the commitment of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in partnership with Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and Cotton SA Ginnery, to promoting agricultural development and improving the lives of farmers and their communities.
Dr. Khathu Tshikolomo's address at the ceremony emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration
in driving growth and development in the agricultural sector.
Harvesting cotton for small scale growers requires physical ability to hand-pick which is time consuming.
