Tag Archives: the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

197 emerging farmers empowered

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Picture: 197 emerging farmers empowered/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

3 September 2025- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, through the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture in partnership with the North West Farmers’ Association of South Africa (NWAFASA), AgriSETA, and BLC Academy, proudly hosted a first-of-its-kind historic certification ceremony on 3 September 2025, at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.

A total of 197 emerging farmers were certified following intensive training programmes in Cattle, Goats, Grain, Poultry, and Horticulture.

The Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla said the initiative is a significant step towards equipping farmers with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to establish, grow sustainable and productive agricultural enterprises. Mokhatla said the certification took into account the triple challenges faced; it is for this reason that the department has collaborated with industries, both public and private, as well as farmer organisations and representatives, to further expose learners to other areas of opportunities, such as the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Program (CASP) funding models available.

“We would like to emphasise the department’s commitment to working in a close partnership with all stakeholders for the betterment of the performance of the sector.

“This programme demonstrates our collective commitment to building a stronger, more resilient agricultural sector that ensures food security and drives rural economic development,” he said.

Mokhatla further said the department congratulates all 197 learners for their discipline, dedication, and passion for agriculture. He added that their achievement marks a significant milestone in strengthening the province’s agricultural landscape.

“Agriculture in the North West is entering a bold new chapter.

Meanwhile, the NWAFASA Chairperson, Andrew Aphane extended his heartfelt appreciation to AgriSETA for their generous sponsorship, BLC as the training partner, and the department for its unwavering support in advancing the empowerment of emerging farmers.

“This partnership has been instrumental in equipping our farmers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to grow sustainable and productive agricultural enterprises,” said Aphane.

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Picture: Head of Department, Thupi Mokhatla addressing the certification ceremony of the 197 emerging farmers in the North West Province/Supplied 

Water access for communal livestock farmers

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Picture: Farmer, Mr Pucoe Oatlhotse from Kgomotso Village stands next to the new livestock handling facility built by the department to support safer and more efficient animal health and disease control/Supplied

By REGINALD KANYANE

7 May 2025- In a decisive move to strengthen rural livestock farming and deliver on its service commitments, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has improved water access for communal livestock farmers in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District. This development marks a meaningful step towards securing sustainable agriculture in some of the province’s most water-stressed areas.

The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha said through targeted interventions and strategic infrastructure upgrades, his department has brought much-needed relief to farming communities that have long contended with unreliable water sources. More than a dozen villages across Kagisano-Molopo and Greater Taung Local Municipalities are now benefiting from restored, upgraded, and newly developed water systems.

Sambatha said these improvements include the installation of windmills, submersible pumps, high-capacity storage tanks, and the drilling and equipping of new boreholes, ensuring farmers have consistent and reliable access to water for their livestock.

“This is a major step in the right direction. For us, farmers are a priority. Without water, there is no farming and without farming, there is no rural economy.

“What we have achieved in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati is a clear example of how the government must respond to the needs of its people. We are not done, there are still areas in need, but this marks a firm beginning,”he said.

Sambatha further said in Kagisano-Molopo, communal farmers in Langpomp, Gamongalenyane 1, Maheng, Setabeng, and Matlhabatlhabe, now enjoy improved access to water following the installation of new windmills, rehabilitation of boreholes, and construction of reservoirs. He added that, He added that, in Greater Taung, eight villages—Comforthill, Choseng, Tlapeng, Fairview, Mogopela B, Tamasikwa, Maphoitsile, and Manthe, are already experiencing the benefits of upgraded boreholes, new pumps and a reticulation system that feeds into a new 60,000-litre Zinc storage tank.

“As part of its broader livestock support strategy, the Department has also installed handling facilities alongside existing dipping tanks, enabling safer and more efficient livestock management during health inspections and disease control operations.

“These efforts are not only helping sustain livestock farming in the district, but are also reinforcing food security and stimulating local rural economies,” said Sambatha.

He said his department is currently assessing additional areas across the province for similar interventions, as it continues to roll out its mandate to support agricultural development and climate-resilient farming systems.

Meanwhile, for farmers like Pucoe Oatlhotse of Kgomotso Village, the intervention has had a tangible impact.

“We are truly encouraged by the progress we are seeing. Access to clean water is making it easier for us to care for our livestock. The department’s support has brought real change on the ground, and we are grateful,” he said.

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