Picture: The handover ceremony of essential tools, led by the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, was attended by the North West MEC for Social Development, Susanna Basetsana Dantjie, the Chair of Chairs, Tebogo Modise from the Provincial Legislature, as well as the traditional leadership of Kabe represented by Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi
By OBAKENG MAJE
28 January 2026- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) have brought renewed hope and practical support to women in Kabe village, outside Mahikeng through the donation of essential agricultural tools. The department said this initiative is set to strengthen household food security, create livelihoods, and restore dignity within the community.
The North West MEC for DARD, Madoda Sambatha said by equipping women with the means to cultivate their own food, the programme promotes self-reliance and resilience. Sambatha said it also encourages sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations.
“Beyond food production, these tools open opportunities for income generation and local economic growth. The programme forms part of the department’s broader work to empower women and build sustainable food systems at the local level.
“This intervention is about more than tools; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. When we support women in agriculture, we are directly supporting families, fighting poverty, and strengthening food security,” he said.
Sambatha further said these women are not just beneficiaries, but producers and partners in the development of the province. He added that hunger and poverty expose communities, especially women and children to numerous social ills.
“By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen the social fabric of our society. We will continue working closely with the North West Department of Social Development to ensure that these women receive the necessary support to make their projects sustainable,” said Sambatha.
He said the tool donation in Kabe marks another practical step by the provincial government to place women at the centre of agricultural development, ensuring they are not only recipients of aid, but active drivers of food production, economic participation, and community resilience. Sambatha said through rural development and food security programmes, this initiative will be expanded to communities across all four districts of the province.
“By equipping women with the tools and skills to cultivate their own livelihoods, we are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building resilient households,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Keabetswe Methikga, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the department.
“These tools will truly make a huge difference in our lives. We have always loved working the land, but the lack of resources often discouraged us. After today, everything feels different. Even the birds that used to destroy our crops will no longer be a problem, because we now have nets to protect our gardens.
“Before this, we struggled to farm with very limited equipment. Some days we had to borrow, and on other days we couldn’t plant at all. With these tools, we can finally work the land properly, grow enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children,” said Methikga.
The traditional leadership welcomed the initiative and pledged their continued support.
Speaking on behalf of the Royal House, Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “As custodians of the land, we are pleased to see the government working hand in hand with our communities. When our women are empowered to produce food, the entire village benefits.
“We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries, encouraging active participation, and ensuring that these tools are used for their intended purpose.”
The Guardian 