By Robyn Joubert
The Zanyokwe farming community received a welcome boost to their agribusiness aspirations, with the official opening of refurbished fresh produce agrihub at the Zanyokwe Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU) in Keiskammahoek, Eastern Cape on 28 February.
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) delivered a range of infrastructure, including a mechanisation centre, cooling system, security fencing, guard house, electricity supply, fuel tank, building refurbishment, ablution facilities and three tractors.
Government aims to ensure the FPSU functions effectively and to support the local agricultural value chain with market access.
DALRRD Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso also signed over title deeds to three farmers, mainly beef and grazing producers.
Minister Nyhontso said his department was committed to supporting farmers: “My role is to ensure that those who are passionate about farming have the necessary resources, including access to land, to produce and thrive.”
Formerly an irrigation scheme for smallholder farmers started in 1983, farmers here produce maize, butternut and potatoes among other crops. With continued investment and support, it has the potential to become a prime agricultural hub and to contribute significantly to food security and economic development in the Eastern Cape.
“Keiskammahoek has long been known as the food basket of our province and we will ensure that never changes. By providing farmers with a fresh produce market centre, we are securing a reliable marketplace for their stock,” said Amahlathi Local Municipality Mayor Nomakosazana Nongqayi.
The DALRRD collaborated with the Provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform and other stakeholders to improve the functionality of the FPSU.
“What we are witnessing today is a true reflection of a collective government. The three spheres of government have worked together to bring this vision to life, ensuring that our people, who are passionate about food production, have access to land to grow even more,” said the mayor.
