During the closing of Agri-Ventures 2025: Pathways into Pig & Goat Farming on Friday, 12 September 2025, Nakedi Kekana, MEC for the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, called on livestock farmers to transition from survivalist farming to sustainable farming.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
Speaking to 25 aspiring pig and goat farmers, government officials and private sector partners in Polokwane, MEC Kekana emphasised the transformative potential of livestock farming in the province.
“We are at a turning point where government, farmers and private sector partners must align to unlock the full potential of livestock farming,” Kekana said.
The MEC announced that the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is finalising a comprehensive farmer support programme set to launch in the 2026/27 financial year.
“This programme will open doors of opportunity for eligible farmers to apply for assistance, not only financial, but also technical support, extension services, veterinary care and, crucially, access to markets,” she explained.
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Focus On Transformation
Kekana highlighted the need for greater participation of black farmers in commercial agriculture, particularly women and youth. “We want to see more black farmers, especially women and youth, thriving in the commercial livestock space,” she said.
The MEC referenced President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision for agricultural transformation, quoting: “Agriculture is a vital part of our growth story. It is a sector that has proven its resilience, even in difficult times, and it remains one of the few industries with the potential to create large numbers of jobs, drive exports and reduce poverty in rural areas.”
She noted the current disparity in commercial agricultural output: “While black farmers make up the majority of land users in rural areas, they contribute less than 10% of commercial output. That disparity must be corrected.”
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Global Market Opportunities
The MEC outlined significant global market opportunities, particularly in livestock exports. “The livestock market is growing, not just here in South Africa, but across the world. Demand for meat, particularly goat meat, is increasing in the Middle East and North Africa,” she said.
Kekana cited recent export successes: “Just last year, South Africa resumed exports of beef to Saudi Arabia after many years, and already we are seeing the positive impact on our farmers. Reports show that countries such as Saudi Arabia imported over 1.7 million heads of livestock in just two months this year to meet seasonal demand.”
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Cultural And Economic Significance
Acknowledging Limpopo’s agricultural heritage, Kekana said: “Our province of Limpopo has long been known as the food basket of the nation. We are a province of rich soil, strong traditions and resilient farmers.”
She specifically highlighted the cultural importance of goats. “Goats in particular are woven into the fabric of our culture and our economy. They are animals of resilience. They sustain families, they are present at our rituals and ceremonies, and they serve as a form of savings for rural households.”
The MEC provided assurance of government support. “As your MEC, I give you this assurance: the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development stands ready to walk this journey with you. We will support you in disease control, in market access, in compliance, in training and in linking you to finance.”
