Pretoria:Eastern Cape Young farmers in the Eastern Cape are set to benefit from a significant upgrade in irrigation infrastructure, which will extend their growing season, enhance production, and create employment opportunities.
According to South African Government News Agency, this development follows a multimillion rand investment in infrastructure, handed over to farmers in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality, OR Tambo. The initiative aims to boost agricultural production and promote inclusive economic growth.
Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe officially handed over the infrastructure as part of the department's strategy to strengthen agricultural production, improve food security, and create sustainable economic opportunities for rural communities. The programme commenced at Sigubudwini village, where Vivi-Am Holdings, a youth-led vegetable production enterprise, received support.
The infrastructure package includes an irrigation system, storage facilities, and fencing valued at R3.8 million. The irrigation system covers 11 hectares, while the fencing spans 20 hectares. Sihle Guzane from Vivi-Am Holdings noted that the improved irrigation system enhances production capacity by providing sufficient water for crops throughout the season.
The increased production capacity has facilitated the creation of both permanent and seasonal employment opportunities as the enterprise grows. Additionally, the department provided the project with a tractor in June, which eased some operational challenges faced by the young farmers.
MEC Kontsiwe praised the dedication of young farmers and the department's efforts in transforming agriculture within the community. She highlighted the farmers' hard work and their success in establishing a market for their produce.
Beyond the support for agricultural enterprises, the department's intervention included infrastructure investments to improve water access for communities in Kumkani Mhlontlo. At Nyanisweni village, Kontsiwe, along with local officials, inaugurated a spring water protection project to provide households with a reliable water source and bolster community food production initiatives.
The Spring Water Protection programme aligns with Section 27 of South Africa's Constitution, ensuring the right to sufficient water. During the installation phase in May 2025, 40 community members were employed temporarily.
Furthermore, MEC Kontsiwe distributed agricultural inputs worth R80,000, including fertilizer and vegetable seedlings, to 12 households with backyard gardens.
