By Obed Makgoale
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) continues to change the lives of young farmers. Through its Land Reform Programme, DALRRD has organised a key handing over to introduce a beneficiary to the newly acquired commercial farm.
Maisha Mathosa (34) had on 25 August 2023, received keys to commercial farm - portion 2 & 3 of the farm Canterbury 254 MR, Portion 2 of the farm Donkerhoek 224 MR and portion 0 of the farm Alwyn 225 MR – which were consolidated into one production unit.
The 2502-hectare (ha) farm was acquired on 26 July 2023 at a cost of R19 510 000.00. The four farms which were consolidated into one unit, contain some boreholes, and supported by a river that passes through the farm.
Mathosa, who is passionate about farming since his young age, emerged victorious after undergoing rigorous selection process with number of competent applicants eyeing for the same property. He was previously leasing farmers from commercial and Community Property Associations (CPA) owners – an indication that cement his proof of farming passion.
During the key handing over, Mathosa was flanked by his wife, son, and members of his family for support and witness the historic moment when he unlocked the gate to the farm. Senior members of DALRRD, Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), Provincial Shared Service Centre (PSSC) Chief Director Dr Modumo Ramodumo, Mopani District Director Ms Catherine Chauke, Capricorn District Director Ms Samkele Mtshweni, Mr Tinyiko Makamu, Ms Joyce Maboa and Mr Michael Buys were amongst others who formed part of the key handing over, unlocking the farm open and inspection of the farm house.
Mathosa, who spoke during the event, vowed to work harder to ensure that the farm continuously represents good value for money and that his livelihood and that of his family is improved. According to Michael Buys, the farm is suitable for crops, citrus and livestock. Mathosa already has 16 years’ experience in livestock and crops.
He started farming full time from 2007. He was farming on a privately leased property in Molemole Local Municipality under Capricorn District. He has 380 Boran and Brangus cattle. All cattle are branded. He was also planting sunflowers on 2 hectares constrained by limited available land.
Tinyiko Makamu described Maisha Mathosa as a very “lucky person” who emerged as a successful beneficiary considering the number of competent applicants vying for the same property. He wished him well as he progresses to real commercial farming.
Dr Modumo Ramodumo gave an overview of the land reform programme in the country and explained the objective of the programme including the targeted people the department is looking to allocated land for agricultural purposes.
The official land handover will be done at a later stage.
Maisha Mathosa (wearing hat) receives farm keys from previous land owner with Dr Modumo Ramodumo (middle) supporting him with handshake.
