By Nape Masemola
The Maize Farmers Day reflected the department’s ongoing commitment to empowering farmers through practical support, innovation and collaboration.
Sekhukhune News | Maize Farmers Day
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development hosted a dynamic Maize Farmers Day at the Vleischboom Farmers Production Unit in the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality, bringing together farmers, industry experts and key stakeholders from across the country.
The event was designed to strengthen the province’s maize sector by promoting knowledge exchange, sharing practical expertise and transferring critical skills to farmers. Sekhukhune District—particularly Makhuduthamaga—is widely recognised as the maize belt of Limpopo, making it a strategic hub for targeted agricultural development and innovation.
Farmers engaged directly with specialists on a range of pressing issues affecting maize production and sustainability. Key topics under discussion included improving access to markets, enabling farmers to better position their produce within competitive value chains, and strategies for disaster risk reduction in the face of increasingly unpredictable climate conditions.
Participants also explored the importance of early warning systems, equipping farmers with tools to anticipate and respond to weather-related threats. Crop insurance was another focal point, with experts unpacking how farmers can safeguard their investments against losses caused by drought, pests and other risks.
In addition, the session placed strong emphasis on maize cultivar selection, guiding farmers on choosing high-yield, climate-resilient varieties suited to local conditions. This was expected to enhance productivity and ensure long-term sustainability for emerging and established producers alike.
The Maize Farmers Day reflected the department’s ongoing commitment to empowering farmers through practical support, innovation and collaboration. By fostering partnerships and strengthening capacity on the ground, the initiative contributed to improved food security, economic growth and resilience within rural communities across Sekhukhune and beyond.
Cllr Alfred Matlala addresses farmers during maize information day.
Farmers engaged directly with specialists on a range of pressing issues affecting maize production and sustainability.
