By Maile Matsimela
In a significant move to transform the agricultural landscape and address unemployment challenges, the Lejweleputswa District Municipality has launched a groundbreaking incubation programme specifically targeting women farmers.
The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to revitalise the district’s economy through agricultural development while ensuring gender equity in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Shifting from mining to agricultural development
The Lejweleputswa District, historically known for its mining activities, is actively diversifying its economic base as mining operations decline. Agriculture has been identified as a key sector for economic revival and employment creation.
During the launch event hosted by AFASA, Executive Mayor Veronica Ntakumbana emphasised the municipality’s commitment to women’s empowerment in agriculture.
“With this incubation, our aim as a district is to make sure we take the first batch of women, train them and hold on to them by ensuring their operations are compliant with the regulations that will enable them to get funding to start working on successful farms,” stated Mayor Ntakumbana.
Addressing unemployment through agricultural innovation
The programme is designed not only to empower women but also to create ripple effects throughout the community by generating employment opportunities.
“This is also going to assist us as government to end the issue of unemployment because when the farm starts to work, it also creates work for other people,” Mayor Ntakumbana explained.
This initiative comes at a crucial time when many communities are grappling with unemployment following the downsizing of mining operations. The agricultural sector presents a viable alternative that can absorb labour while contributing to food security and economic stability.
Collaborative governance approach
A key feature of this agricultural initiative is its implementation through the District Development Model, which fosters collaboration between different spheres of government to ensure comprehensive support for farmers.
Mayor Ntakumbana highlighted this collaborative approach: “We are no longer working in silos – all three spheres of government are working together.”
This integrated governance model ensures women farmers receive consistent support from the national, provincial and local government levels, streamlining access to resources, funding and technical assistance.
Beyond training: Ensuring sustainable success
The incubation programme goes beyond mere skills development. It incorporates a holistic approach to agricultural entrepreneurship, ensuring that participants receive:
- Comprehensive training on modern farming techniques.
- Support with compliance requirements for agricultural enterprises.
- Assistance with funding applications and financial management.
- Ongoing mentorship during farm establishment.
- Access to markets and distribution networks.
The municipality has already begun distributing farms and livestock to young women farmers as part of its commitment to transforming the agricultural landscape.
Private sector involvement
The initiative also acknowledges the importance of private sector participation in agricultural development. The municipality is actively encouraging businesses to contribute to these agricultural projects, particularly those involving young and enthusiastic farmers.
Transforming agricultural demographics
This initiative represents a significant step toward addressing historical imbalances in South Africa’s agricultural sector, where white farmers have traditionally dominated. By specifically targeting women, particularly young black women, the programme aims to create a more equitable agricultural landscape that reflects the country’s demographic diversity.
Looking forward
As the first cohort of women enters the incubation programme, the Lejweleputswa District Municipality remains optimistic about agriculture’s potential to transform the district’s economic fortunes while empowering previously marginalised groups.
The success of this programme could serve as a model for other municipalities facing similar challenges of economic transition and gender inequality in agricultural production.
* This article is based on statements made by Executive Mayor Veronica Ntakumbana of the Lejweleputswa District Municipality during the launch of the women’s agricultural incubation programme.
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