The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development officially welcomed a high-level Ghanaian delegation to the province this week, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral agricultural relations between South Africa and Ghana.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
MEC Nakedi Kekana hosted the delegation of six Regional Ministers, which are equivalent to South Africa’s Premiers. They are conducting a study tour focused on agriculture and rural development practices. The visit represents a milestone in advancing agricultural cooperation and food security initiatives across the African continent.
Limpopo Positioned as Continental Food Hub
Speaking at the welcome ceremony in Groblersdal, MEC Kekana positioned Limpopo as South Africa’s food basket, with ambitions to become a continental agricultural hub. “We see ourselves not just as the food basket of our country but also as an emerging food basket for the African continent,” she said.
The province has established Agricultural Development Zones supported by favourable climatic conditions, fertile soils and strong market demand. These zones focus on citrus and subtropical fruits in Mopani and Vhembe, baby vegetables in Nwanedi, grain production in Lower and Upper Lepelle in Sekhukhune, red meat in Waterberg, potato development in Capricorn, and aquaculture in Sekhukhune and Capricorn.
Also read: Young Limpopo farmers turn frustrations into opportunity
Leading National Agricultural Production
Limpopo’s agricultural dominance is reflected in impressive production statistics. The province produces 42% of South Africa’s citrus, 61% of avocados, 86% of mangoes and 29% of macadamia nuts, establishing itself as a major player in both national and international markets.
The delegation’s tour began in Groblersdal, one of South Africa’s most productive irrigation hubs. Established as an irrigation settlement supported by the Loskop Dam, the region demonstrates how scarce water resources can be transformed into productive farmland in a semi-arid environment.
“This region stands as a practical example of how irrigation, soil and market linkages work together to create a thriving agricultural economy,” MEC Kekana explained to the delegation.
The area supports diverse crops including citrus, table grapes, maize, wheat, vegetables, sunflower, peanuts, lucerne and peaches through highly productive irrigation schemes.
Comprehensive Supported Programmes
The Limpopo government provides extensive farmer support through extension and advisory services, training and mentorship programmes, infrastructure development for production and markets, and promotion of conservation agriculture. These initiatives aim to transform emerging farmers into sustainable agripreneurs while ensuring efficient use of natural resources.
The programmes align with global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals and the Maputo Declaration on Agriculture and Food Security.
Over the next four days, the Ghanaian delegation will visit both commercial and small-scale farms across the Sekhukhune and Mopani districts, providing opportunities to observe diverse agricultural practices and technologies firsthand.
Also read: MEC Kekana champions harnessing Limpopo’s rich soil, climate and farming heritage
Building Continental Partnerships
MEC Kekana emphasised the importance of knowledge exchange and partnerships in addressing food security, job creation and economic growth. “Your presence here is testimony to the importance of building and deepening bilateral relations, where we can learn from one another, share knowledge and unlock opportunities that benefit our farmers, our economies and our people,” she told the delegation.
Also read: Applications now open: Limpopo farmers can apply for government support
The visit is expected to strengthen agricultural cooperation between the two nations and contribute to broader African food security goals, with both countries working towards making Africa self-sufficient in food production.
The delegation’s study tour represents part of ongoing efforts to build resilient and productive agricultural systems across the continent through shared experiences and collaborative partnerships.
Also read: Farming emakhaya | Limpopo women show how urban backyard gardens are building food security
