Washed-out canals, broken fences, and damaged roads continue to stall recovery at Bushbuckridge’s Dingledale Irrigation Scheme, where farmers are calling for deeper state support to get back on their feet after earlier floods.
Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi heard concerns about fencing, production inputs, mechanisation and outstanding infrastructure repairs during a follow-up oversight visit to the scheme in Ward 22 near Thulamahashe.
Farmer Julia Shabangu said outstanding needs include fencing of approximately 1.7 hectares to protect crops from livestock and theft, additional production inputs, access to mechanisation, and the completion of repairs to the water canal and access road.
“Without proper fencing, our crops remain vulnerable to livestock and theft. We also need reliable water infrastructure and machinery to help us work more efficiently,” said Shabangu.
Delays in restoring infrastructure can affect planting schedules, production costs and their ability to supply markets.
Farmers also raised concern about a shortage of extension officers who play an important role in helping farmers manage crops, address production challenges and improve yields.
Moeketsi said the government recognised that farmers need consistent support, not only in the form of production inputs but also through agricultural advice and guidance.
“The shortage of extension officers is a national challenge, and the matter is being addressed with the national department,” Moeketsi said.
The department donated seed and fertiliser to help in preparation for production. However, farmers’ will need proper water supply, functioning infrastructure and protection against crop losses.
Joyce Ringane, a farmer in ward 22, said the seeds and fertiliser will help.
“But we also need the infrastructure and equipment to make sure we can use these inputs effectively. Our aim is to produce more and earn an income from our farming,” Ringane noted.
Moeketsi also encouraged farmers to register as suppliers at the Mpumalanga International FoodMarket in Mbombela.
Access to buyers could create an opportunity for farmers to sell their produce and build more sustainable businesses. However, their ability to supply a market consistently will depend on their production capacity and whether the outstanding challenges at the scheme are addressed.
