By Muifha Tshifhiwa
Chief Director for Agriculture Development & Farmer Support Mr Nowata Jethro addressing the audience during
Farmers Conference held at Tshipise Forever Resort.
On the 19th -21st July, an information filled farmers’ conference was held at Tshipise Forever Resort in Musina (Northern Agri-Ecological Zone solely for Musina farmers. The conference of this calibre is held annually in Musina Municipality to empower local farmers with information that will enable them to be productive, effective and efficient in their farming businesses.
The conference was held under the theme: Sustainable Agricultural Production under hard economic and social circumstances. It was aimed at creating awareness and equipping farmers to be both partakers and stakeholders of the upcoming Musina Makhado Special Economic Zone. It also created a platform to farmers for networking with the key stakeholders within the farming industry.
Speaking during the conference, The Chief Director responsible for Agriculture Development & Farmer Support Agro-Ecological Zone, Mr Jethro Nowata reminded the farmers of the important role they continue to play and their contribution towards the economy. “One cannot separate Agriculture from economic growth, poverty and hunger alleviation and fighting unemployment. As farmers you should be proud of the contribution you make to the lives of the people of South Africa and abroad.” reassured Nowata.
LDARD’s Ms Rabelani Ramutangwa gave a detailed presentation on Farmer Support Policy. Her presentation touched base on Producer Support and Development, Landcare, Disaster Support, Extension services, Veterinary services, Engineering support and Agribusiness Development support as services rendered by the LDARD. Amongst others she indicated that only previously disadvantaged South Africans will be eligible for funding with Water right as a Pre-requisite.
Presenting about the Safe use of Agricultural Chemicals during Farmers Conference was Mr Zweli Mgayo.
Farmers also had an opportunity to learn more about the Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone (MMSEZ). Agro-Processing and Manufacturing Sector Specialist Mr Mathobo Tshilidzi highlighted the opportunities and benefits to be realised with the upcoming MMSEZ. He emphasized of the vast developmental plans centred on Agriculture and its value chain.
Mr Mulalo Nethengwe of Department of Water and Sanitation also took to the stage to address an extremely concerning topic to farmers in water right or water use authority. He emphasized that water licencing is a critical component of water resource management, economic development and transformation.
Other Sector departments, State Owned Entities, Medium and Large privately owned companies presented their support packages including financial support and other support packages to the farmers.
Director for Vhembe Agro-Ecological Zone Me Raphunga Edna addressing the audience during Farmers Conference held at Tshipise Forever Resort.
In her closing remarks the Director for Agricultural Advisory Services Vhembe Me Edna Raphunga commended the conference organisers for the successful and an informative conference. She also encouraged farmers to work towards making the province food secured. “The past three days have been all about you, you have been empowered. Go and be productive” Proud Raphunga said.
