By Excel Fongoma
Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Mase Manopole, alongside Emthanjeni Municipality Mayor Nkumbi, officially handed over the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP) project to 83 emerging farmers at the Civic Centre in Pixley Ka Seme District.
The handover, valued at R10.7 million, included water infrastructure and mobile livestock handling facilities, aimed at significantly boosting the productivity and sustainability of local farming operations across various municipalities in the district.
“We believe in your potential, and we expect to see you grow, innovate, and inspire others. The department is your partner, but success lies in how you use these tools. Your dedication, commitment, and wise stewardship of these resources will determine the future of agriculture in this district,” said Manopole.
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The initiative forms part of the Northern Cape government’s wider commitment to inclusive rural development and sustainable farming practices. For many of the emerging farmers, this support is more than just a handover it’s a new chapter in their agricultural journey.
Boitumelo Moabi, a young female sheep farmer from De Aar, expressed her gratitude with visible excitement.
“We have been working with very little, and it’s hard to keep livestock healthy without proper infrastructure. These mobile handling facilities will help us treat and manage our animals better, especially during lambing season. It feels like the government finally sees us,” said Moabi.
Moabi, who runs her operation on communal land, has aspirations to grow her flock and start supplying local abattoirs on a larger scale.
“This is a game-changer for my business,” she added.
Another recipient, veteran vegetable grower Petrus Kgatle from Prieska, said the water infrastructure will completely transform his farm.
“I have struggled for years with unreliable water access. This support means I can now irrigate consistently and plant more crops. It’s not just a boost to my income it’s hope for my family’s future.”
Kgatle, who employs five seasonal workers, hopes the improved productivity will allow him to offer more permanent positions. “This isn’t just about one farm. It’s about growing communities.”
The handover ceremony was also attended by district officials, traditional leaders, and agricultural extension officers who pledged continued technical support to the beneficiaries.
The CASP initiative has played a critical role in empowering smallholder and emerging farmers across South Africa since its inception.
