A total of 2,400 farmers across the four districts of the North West Province are set to be among the beneficiaries of Phase 3 of the Presidential Economic Stimulus Initiative (PESI), commonly known as the PESI Vouchers.
The initiative was officially launched on Thursday, 21 November, by Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Nokuzola Capa, alongside MEC Madoda Sambatha in Makgobistad near Mahikeng.
According to the department, since its inception in 2020, the PES has created over 1.5 million work and livelihood support opportunities for unemployed South Africans.
The department further said the launch of Phase 3 aims to build on the success by empowering communities, boosting agricultural productivity, and fostering sustainable economic growth, particularly in rural areas.
The PES focuses on supporting subsistence projects and vulnerable households through packages for large stock, small stock, poultry, and piggery. Following the launch, households and farmers will begin receiving their packages to enhance agricultural production.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Capa encouraged communities to continue farming and producing food. She also applauded the North West Province for its commitment to including youth and women in agriculture.
“I encourage the youth of Makgobistad and the province at large to participate in making this Presidential initiative a success,” she said.
During the launch, several households from Ratlou Local Municipality received garden tools to enhance food production, while others received livestock feed.
Among them was Kgosimoruti Erick Hassen, who received bales of Lucerne for his goats.
“I am extremely happy and appreciate what the government has done for me. This support will help as my animals have been struggling due to the drought and late rains,” said Hassen.
Another beneficiary, Goitseone Lekgotla, received garden tools to support her vision of becoming a quality vegetable producer. Lekgotla, who has always had a strong passion for farming, said the assistance from the government would help her expand her agricultural project.
The deputy minister and MEC Sambatha later proceeded to Lekung village, where they handed over 30 pregnant Bonsmara heifers and a bull to a beneficiary of the Department’s Unemployed Agricultural Graduate Programme, Thamsanqa Rabasotho.
Rabasotho, a young farmer from Mahikeng, received the livestock as a start-up kit. “I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the graduate programme, where I learned most of the skills I use today,” said Rabasotho.
The graduate programme offers participants hands-on training in farm management, production, health and safety, business, and entrepreneurship. The Department also collaborates with a local university to prepare participants for running their enterprises upon completing the programme.
Farmers and communities actively involved in agriculture are encouraged to visit their nearest agricultural offices to explore the various support initiatives provided by the Department.
