By Maphuiti Machabaphala
Mr. John Mabokela encourages the farm owner to ensure all farm workers are insured.
The Capricorn East Agro Ecological Zone office, in partnership with the Mankweng Advisory Centre, recently convened a workshop for farmers of Damplaats in Ga-Dikgale under the Molemole Local Municipality. The focus of the session was to equip farmers with knowledge of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), ensuring they are better prepared to comply with workplace safety requirements.
Mr. Mabokela John from the Mankweng Advisory Centre stressed that the essence of the gathering was to cultivate a culture of safety and compliance within farming communities. He highlighted that while legislation sets the framework, true compliance lies in daily practices such as maintaining safe working tools, ensuring protective clothing is available, discouraging the use of harmful substances, and reporting all workplace incidents without delay. He reminded participants that even minor injuries should be recorded, as this not only protects workers but also ensures that farms are legally and ethically accountable.
Ms. Hlapa Mantsha expanded on the critical role of the COIDA compensation fund, describing it as a lifeline for vulnerable farmers and their employees. She explained that through their agreement with the Department of Labour, the Mankweng Advisory Centre has been instrumental in educating farm workers about their rights. Farmers were reminded that all categories of workers—permanent, seasonal, temporary, and casual—are covered under the fund, provided incidents are reported within the required 7–14-day window. Hlapa further outlined the benefits available under the fund, ranging from temporary disablement allowances, which cover up to 75% of salaries, to permanent disablement compensation that provides long-term financial support to affected workers and their families. She also guided farmers through the process of lodging claims for death benefits, stressing the importance of correct documentation.
The farmers engaged actively, asking practical questions, and expressing appreciation for the clarity brought by the session. Many acknowledged the need to improve their record-keeping and reporting processes, recognising compliance not as an administrative burden but as a safeguard for both workers and farm owners.
In closing, Ms. Letsoalo Queen from the Department of Agriculture commended the collaborative efforts between the Advisory Centre and the Department of Labour. She highlighted that such workshops are vital in ensuring that farmers are not only aware of the laws but are also empowered to implement them effectively. By embracing compliance, she said, farmers secure safer workplaces, protect livelihoods, and contribute to building resilient farming communities.
