By Maile Matsimela
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development successfully hosted its 11th Provincial Extension and Advisory Conference from 21 to 23 May 2025 in Stilfontein near Klerksdorp in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.
Held under the theme “Improving Agricultural Productivity through Quality Extension Services”, the three-day event brought together over 150 extension officers, experts and partners.
Extension services remain a vital link between farmers and the latest research, innovations and technical advice that can help improve productivity, manage risks and adapt to climate challenges.
In his opening remarks, Head of Department Thupi Mokhatla described the conference as an important opportunity for the sector to reflect and plan. “This conference is not just about exchanging information. It is about building an extension service that is responsive, skilled and focused on making a real difference where it matters most,” Mokhatla said.
- The Department outlined four key focus areas to improve extension delivery:
expanding group extension methods to reach more farmers - developing digital advisory tools
- strengthening partnerships
- investing in skills development to meet evolving demands
The department said key partners such as the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), the South African Forum for Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services (SAFAEAS), the South African Society for Agricultural Extension (SASAE) and the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) played an active role in enriching the discussions.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC Madoda Sambatha emphasised the indispensable role extension officers play in bridging the gap between government policies and the day-to-day realities faced by farmers.
He called for urgent and sustained investment in the provision of essential tools, resources and ongoing professional development to ensure extension services are effective and of the highest quality.
“Extension officers are the link between government and the farmer,” said Sambatha. “We cannot expect excellence without giving them the proper means to do their work.”
Sambatha further highlighted the importance of professionalising the extension sector, stressing that recognising extension officers as skilled professionals is crucial for building a motivated and capable workforce. He reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting extension officers through continuous training, career development opportunities and formal recognition, all of which are vital to enhancing their impact on food security and rural development.
“Be present, be responsive. Farmers depend on you,” Sambatha concluded.
