Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development held a stakeholder meeting at Zebula Golf Estate & Spa in Bela-Bela on Thursday and Friday, last week. The consultation meeting focused on challenges faced by subsistence and emerging farmers with the view to finding solutions within government programs.
The meeting was attended by representatives from LEDA, IDC, Land Bank, AGDA, and PotatoSA.
Opening her address, Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Nakedi Grace Kekana said their gathering was an essential step in aligning the collective resources, expertise, and strategies to drive economic transformation, food security, and sustainable rural development in Limpopo and across South Africa.
Kekana told stakeholders their involvement in the agricultural value chain is crucial for ensuring that the vision of a united, prosperous, and productive agricultural sector for sustainable rural communities becomes a reality.
‘We are aware of the challenges that lie ahead—climate change, dwindling resources, and economic constraints—but we are equally aware of the enormous opportunities that come with strategic partnerships. My Department, the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has been tasked with driving the commercialisation of agriculture, empowering smallholder farmers, and facilitating inclusive growth in the agricultural sector. However, success in this endeavour depends heavily on partnerships, and today, we seek to deepen our cooperation with all of you to achieve our critical objectives,” she said.
On expanding access to finance and credit, Kekana acknowledged that one of the biggest hurdles for emerging farmers and agro-entrepreneurs is accessing affordable finance. She, however, said that through partnerships with institutions such as the Land Bank and IDC, “we can bridge this gap and provide tailored financial solutions that enable smallholder farmers to invest in infrastructure, technology, and value-added activities”.
Regarding Agro-processing and value chain development, Kekana said that by expanding agro-processing, they can be able to add value to raw agricultural products, create jobs, and stimulate local economies.
“You-LEDA, AGDA, and PotatoSA, your role in fostering value chain development and promoting local produce is critical to ensuring that our farmers not only grow crops but also participate meaningfully in the downstream activities that can increase their earnings and transform rural economies.”
Furthermore, Kekana touched on a growing threat posed by climate change, which she said has made it imperative to adopt sustainable, climate-smart practices.
“Land Bank and IDC, you have been instrumental in supporting green financing and innovation, which are key to helping our farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions. Through research, development, and financial support, we can promote climate resilience and ensure the long-term viability of the sector,” said the MEC.
The MEC added that agricultural sector requires a strong infrastructure backbone to thrive.
This includes roads, storage facilities, irrigation systems, and access to markets.
“LEDA and other stakeholders, we look to you for support in aligning infrastructure investments with the needs of our farmers and rural communities. Together, we can ensure that these investments are targeted and that they enable increased productivity and market access.”
She said the Agricultural and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP) serves as our blueprint for achieving this transformation.
“It focuses on increasing participation in the value chain, particularly for emerging black farmers and previously disadvantaged groups. Through our partnership with key stakeholders like LEDA, IDC, Land Bank, AGDA, and PotatoSA, we can ensure that our province contributes meaningfully to the goals of this plan.”
She said Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba has been a staunch advocate of expanding agro-processing in Limpopo.
“As a province rich in natural resources and agricultural diversity, we are well-positioned to become a hub for agro-processing industries. This, not only adds value to raw products, but also creates much-needed employment in rural areas, where economic opportunities are scarce.”
Kekana said the broader vision for Limpopo and South Africa’s agricultural future is to expand primary agricultural production in the province, focusing on strategic commodities, to promote inclusive participation in the agricultural value chain, ensuring that smallholder farmers have access to the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed, and to support climate resilience and sustainability, so that the sector is not only productive today but also sustainable for future generations.
Kekana concluded saying that their task is not easy, but it is achievable.
“The economy is strained, and budgets are tight. However, through innovative financing, public-private partnerships, and strategic interventions, we can ensure that agriculture remains a beacon of hope for economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
“I am confident that our deliberations today will lead to actionable strategies that reflect the spirit of cooperation, innovation, and commitment. Let us seize this moment to work together, support each other, and build a stronger, more inclusive agricultural sector.”
