The Rustenburg Agricultural Expo kicked off with North West Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha painting a compelling picture of transformation and possibility for the province’s agricultural future.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
Speaking at the official opening ceremony on 14 October, Sambatha described the expo not merely as an event but also as a vital marketplace where farmers can “display and market their products” to audiences who might otherwise never encounter their work.
He painted a picture of discovery, where visitors unfamiliar with certain agricultural practices or products would find themselves drawn into new possibilities. “This interaction opens doors for learning and innovation,” he noted, emphasising how knowing where exhibitors operate from creates pathways for future collaboration and reference.
From Local Fields to Global Stages
Sambatha’s pride was evident as he shared a success story that exemplified his vision. One farmer, supported by the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, had earned the opportunity to exhibit internationally, showcasing North West produce on German soil. This wasn’t just a victory for one individual, but a demonstration of what becomes possible when local talent meets strategic support.
“It’s a learning experience that provides exposure to new ideas, products and projects,” the MEC explained. He spoke of how witnessing such success stories encourages others to enter agricultural ventures, creating a ripple effect of participation and innovation across the province.
Mining and Agriculture: Partners, not Rivals
Sambatha tackled the complex relationship between mining and agriculture in the Rustenburg area, in particular the Bojanala District. He acknowledged that this is “predominantly a mining region” where agricultural land often transforms into mining operations.
But rather than accepting this as an inevitable conflict, Sambatha said: “Agriculture and mining do not exist in competition. They exist in a complementary approach.” He reminded the audience that mines themselves depend on food production and agricultural goods, creating natural interdependencies that smart policy can nurture rather than ignore.
The MEC’s frustration was palpable when he addressed the issue of land rehabilitation, lamenting the missed opportunities when mining operations cease without proper restoration efforts. His vision extends beyond mere coexistence to active regeneration, where previously mined land could return to agricultural productivity through thoughtful rehabilitation programmes.
Also read: North West Agricultural Show: Farmers spoke and institutions listened
Inclusive Agriculture for Everyone
Sambatha’s inclusive approach to agricultural development shone through as he acknowledged a fundamental reality: “Not everyone can be a farmer due to constraints such as access to land.” Rather than seeing this as a limitation, he framed it as an opportunity for creative participation in the agricultural value chain.
He spoke about supporting industries, supply opportunities and the broader agricultural ecosystem that allows people to contribute meaningfully even if they do not own farmland. Whether through land reform initiatives or participation in related sectors, Sambatha painted agriculture as a field wide enough for everyone to find their place.
Also read: Revived North West Agricultural Show puts farmers first
A Government that Stands Behind Agriculture
Closing his address, Sambatha reaffirmed the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector, emphasising support “at both collective and individual levels”. The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, he assured attendees, remains dedicated to encouraging, exposing and marketing the agricultural sector while helping individuals secure opportunities for growth and development.
As the three-day expo continues until 16 October, Sambatha’s vision of unity, collaboration and progress for agriculture in North West provides both inspiration and practical direction.
Also read: North West Agriculture boosts food security efforts with garden equipment and livestock packages
