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Sannieshof-The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has officially launched the
2025/26 Provincial Planting Season at the Retladirela Cooperative in Dwarskraal, located within the Tswaing
Local Municipality.

Held under the theme
“Sustainable Crop Production for Food Security and Growth,” the event brought
together farmers, stakeholders, and partners from across the province to promote best practices in grain
production and mechanized farming. The Provincial Planting Season serves as a key intervention to activate
land, enhance productivity, and support both emerging and established farmers with technical knowledge
and production inputs.

As part of the Crop Massification programme, the department has committed to cultivating 6,000 hectares
across the province’s four districts. In the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, just over 2,500 hectares have been
earmarked for production during the 2025/26 financial year, supported by an investment of over R23 million.
The Retladirela Cooperative, which operates on 565 hectares, is one of the key beneficiaries of this
programme. For the current season, the cooperative will plant maize and sugar beans across 250 hectares.

Speaking during the launch on behalf of the cooperative, Mr. Nkwe Metswamere welcomed the department’s
support and reflected on the cooperative’s journey since its establishment in 2005. He noted that the recent
mechanization support received through the National Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
has significantly improved operational efficiency and reduced the time required for soil preparation and
planting. He further encouraged farmers to remain patient and committed when engaging with government
processes, emphasizing that persistence and adherence to proper channels yield tangible results.

The mechanization package provided to the cooperative includes two tractors, two ripper machines, an eight-
row planter, a 24-disc offset, a 10-ton trailer, 1,000-litre boom sprayers, and production inputs.
These were showcased during live demonstrations conducted as part of the launch, offering farmers hands-
on exposure to modern mechanization techniques that enhance planting precision and the efficient use of
agrochemicals.

Speaking during the launch, MEC Madoda Sambatha highlighted the strategic importance of empowering
farmers with both resources and technical expertise to drive sustainable agricultural development.
He stated that every hectare of productive land must serve as a catalyst for food security and inclusive
economic growth. Reflecting on the broader vision for the sector, MEC Sambatha remarked, “Planting is never
just about the present season, it is about shaping the future. Every seed we sow is a declaration of intent:
to nourish communities, uplift rural economies, and build a resilient, self-sustaining province.”

The successful launch of the 2025/26 Provincial Planting Season in Dwarskraal signals a decisive step forward
in strengthening the province’s agricultural base. With a clear focus on land activation, farmer support, and
sustainable production, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has laid the groundwork for
a season defined by collaboration, resilience, and growth.

As the programme unfolds, the emphasis remains on turning policy into practice, ensuring that every hectare
cultivated contributes to food security, economic development, and the long-term vitality of farming
communities across the North West.

PICTURE CAPTIONS

IMG 1436: MEC Madoda Sambatha addressing hundreds of grain farmers during this year’s launch of the
planting season in Dwarskraal.

IMG 1437: A planter and spray calibration demonstration was conducted to showcase correct mechanization
techniques that improve planting precision and efficient use of agrochemicals.

IMG 1438: The Crop Massification Programme is aimed at driving land activation and productivity throughout
the province.

Issued by:

The Directorate Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Departmental Spokesperson: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread
X : @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng- MEC Madoda Sambatha is set to lead the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural
Development’s Provincial Grain Planting Launch, marking the start of the 2025/26 planting season in the
Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality.

For the 2025/26 summer grain season, the programme will support 50 farmers across 2,700 hectares in all
five local municipalities of the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. The R23 million allocation will be used to provide
inputs, technical guidance, and essential resources to promote sustainable grain production and enhance
food security.

Farmers attending the event will benefit from live demonstrations on key aspects of the planting season,
including soil profiling to assess fertility and guide fertilizer application, proper soil preparation for optimal
seedbed conditions, planter and boom sprayer calibration to ensure uniform seed placement and safe
agrochemical use, and effective weed control techniques to enhance crop yields.

This launch forms part of the government’s Crop Massification Initiative, which targets fallow land in
communal areas and strengthens access to productive resources for vulnerable farmers.

Members of the media are invited to cover the event, witness demonstrations, and engage with farmers and
experts at the start of a productive planting season in the North West province. The launch is scheduled to
take place as follows:

Date : Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Venue : Retladirela Agricultural Cooperative –Dwaalskraal Sannieshof
Time : 09:00

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Director : Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread
X : @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with the
Maquassi Hills Local Municipality, is set to host the 2025 Provincial Commemoration of World Food Day. This annual
gathering remains a key moment in the province’s calendar, highlighting the vital role agriculture plays in securing
food, improving livelihoods, and promoting sustainable farming practices across communities.

This year’s commemoration will be observed under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,”
which reflects a shared commitment to advancing food security and building resilient agricultural systems. The
event will bring together farmers, industry partners, and residents to celebrate progress in agriculture, exchange
ideas, and showcase innovative thinking around food production and distribution.

As part of the day’s programme, the Department will roll out a range of support initiatives aimed at boosting
household and community food production. These include the distribution of vegetable inputs, fruit trees, and
starter packs for home gardens, as well as livestock support for selected subsistence farmers.

A local food project will also receive tools and resources to enhance its long-term impact.

Members of the media are invited to cover this important event as follows:

Date : Thursday, 23 October 2025
Time : 09h00
Venue : Kgakala Township Stadium, {Leudoringstad}

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Departmental Spokesperson: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za

For enquiries, contact:
Ms Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread

Mahikeng – The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West, Madoda Sambatha, has
extended his warm wishes to the province’s outstanding farmers, who were honoured at 2025 Grain SA’s Day
of Celebration awards ceremony, held on 2 October 2025 at Nampo Park, Bothaville.

Mr Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, a farmer from Ditsobotla Local Municipality, was crowned 2025 New Era
Commercial Farmer of the Year, a prestigious accolade recognising exceptional innovation, leadership, and
excellence in commercial farming. As part of this honour, he received a John Deere tractor to enhance his planting
operations, further empowering him to expand production and improve efficiency on his farm.

The province was also represented by Itumeleng Mongane, winner of the 2025 Smallholder Farmer of the
Year award for his dedication, resilience, and outstanding contributions to small-scale farming; Mpho Munyai,
runner-up in the New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year category; and Nkosana Mthimkhulu, runner-up in the
Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year category.

According to the organisers of this annual event, Grain SA, these awards are designed not only to celebrate the
dedication, perseverance, and achievements of farmers nationwide but also to inspire young farmers,
encouraging them to embrace agriculture with passion, determination, and a forward-looking vision.

The 2025 Commercial Farmer of the Year, Mr. Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, who trained in electrical engineering
and fitting and turning, has built a thriving mixed farming operation, producing maize, sunflower, and small
white beans, alongside a premium herd of Brahman, Simbra, and Bonsmara cattle. He attributes his meticulous
record-keeping, dedication, and strong work ethic as key factors in earning national recognition among South
Africa’s leading emerging commercial farmers. He also credits his success to ongoing learning and guidance from
agricultural experts.

MEC Madoda Sambatha extended his heartfelt congratulations to all farmers who participated in this year’s
awards, including the runner-ups, for their hard work, commitment, and contributions to advancing agriculture
in the province.

He described the awards as a moment of immense pride for the North West, noting that the recognition of these
farmers reflects the province’s growing influence and stature in the national agricultural sector.
“Winning in this competition is not new to our farmers. In previous years, such as in 2023, the New Era
Commercial Farmer of the Year title was also claimed by a farmer, Mr. Shimi Raphotho from this province.
“That alone shows that we are doing something right in the North West, from our robust farmer support
programmes to the unwavering dedication of our producers who continue to demonstrate excellence and
innovation in their work. Their achievements inspire both the young and old farmers across, proving that with
perseverance, vision, and the courage to seize opportunities, success in agriculture is within everyone’s reach,”
MEC Sambatha concluded.

As the province celebrates these remarkable milestones, the stories of these farmers stand as powerful reminders
that with determination, innovation, and support, local farmers can thrive and drive the transformation of South
Africa’s agricultural landscape.

Mr Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, 2025 New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year, celebrates his triumph with the John Deere
tractor that marks his journey of excellence and growth.

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard
Contact Person: Prince Seokotsa
Acting: Director, Communication Services
Cell : 078 456 6352
Email : PSeokotsa@nwpg.gov.za

OR

For enquiries:
Ms Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has allocated a combined R252.090 million towards
strengthening agricultural support, food security, and rural livelihoods in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Of this amount, R185.227 million has been set aside for the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme
(CASP) Conditional Grant, while R66.863 million is earmarked for the ILIMA/Letsema Conditional Grant. These
allocations will support key priority areas such as agricultural production, agro-processing, infrastructure
development, and the upliftment of rural communities across the province.

This bold investment will be directed towards high-value and fast-growing commodities, including red meat,
groundnuts, macadamia nuts, hemp, grains, vegetables, fruits, and beekeeping industries with significant
potential for rural job creation, agribusiness development, and market expansion. By focusing on these sectors,
the Department aims to unlock meaningful economic impact where it matters most.

More than 1,900 smallholder and emerging farmers are set to benefit directly through improved access to
essential infrastructure, production inputs, mechanisation, and training opportunities. This initiative marks a
significant step forward in the Department’s mission to modernise agriculture and transform rural areas into
hubs of economic activity and food production.

Welcoming this development, MEC Madoda Sambatha said, “This is a significant investment in the agricultural
future of our province. Through focused support in key commodities, we are unlocking opportunities for growth,
export potential, and rural employment. This money is not just about supporting farmers, it is about transforming
communities, stimulating local economies, and laying the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive agricultural
sector.”

The initiative aligns seamlessly with the strategic priorities of the 7th Administration, which aim to accelerate
inclusive growth, deepen transformation, and build a capable, ethical, and people-centred developmental state.
MEC Sambatha further added that the Department has deliberately prioritised commodities such as red meat,
groundnuts, macadamia, hemp, vegetables, fruits, and beekeeping because of their power to revive local
economies, boost food sovereignty, and create lasting jobs.

“This plan will directly support farmers and rural enterprises across all districts. More importantly, it proves that
inclusive growth, land reform, and rural development are not just slogans; they are urgent action points.
Agriculture is not on the periphery of our economy; it is the heartbeat of our developmental vision. With targeted
investment and focused execution, we are building the North West of tomorrow, today,” MEC Sambatha
emphasised.

Applications for funding for the 2026/27 financial year are now open. Farmers and agricultural enterprises are
strongly encouraged to apply before the window closes in two weeks. This is a vital opportunity to secure support
that can drive growth, innovation, and sustainability in their agricultural ventures

Issued by:

The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

Director : Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
For enquiries contact:
Ms Khutala Tshangela
Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread
X : @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (NW-DARD) has
committed R36.856 million to the Red Meat Industry Development and Enhancement Programme, a
targeted intervention aimed at repositioning the province as a major player in South Africa’s red meat
economy.

Announced last Wednesday, 23 July 2025, by MEC Madoda Sambatha during his Department’s Policy and Budget
Speech at the North West Provincial Legislature, the programme is set to directly benefit 7,242 farmers including
4,728 men, 2,219 women, 252 youth, and 43 people living with disabilities, through structured production
support, access to value chains, and market integration.

The initiative will be implemented through the Beef Beneficiation Aggregation Model, a framework designed to
enhance farmer coordination, improve processing capacity, and establish sustainable linkages to commercial
markets. The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District will be prioritised, given its concentration of beef farming
operations and its strategic role in the provincial livestock value chain.

In addition to supporting production, the programme is projected to generate 321 temporary and 87 permanent
jobs, particularly in areas such as aggregation, logistics, technical extension, and feedlot operations. This aligns
with the Department’s broader goals of advancing rural development, increasing household incomes, and
reducing unemployment in underserved communities.

MEC Madoda Sambatha has declared the R36.8 million injection into the red meat industry a decisive turning
point for the North West agricultural sector. “This is more than just funding, it is a bold statement of intent. We
are transforming the red meat value chain, unlocking opportunities for emerging farmers, and positioning the
province as a powerhouse in livestock production,” said Sambatha.

“This investment is a clear demonstration of our steadfast commitment to building a transformed, competitive,
and inclusive red meat industry in the North West. Through this programme, we are not only empowering our
farmers, but also driving economic growth, boosting job creation, and laying a solid foundation for long-term
food security and agro-industrial development,” MEC Sambatha concluded.

The Red Meat Industry Development and Enhancement Programme forms part of NW-DARD’s strategy to
broaden participation, enhance local beneficiation, and stimulate growth across rural economies, while
contributing meaningfully to the provincial and national GDP.

CAPTIONS:

MEC Madoda Sambatha delivering the 2025/26 Departmental Policy and Budget Speech at the
North West Provincial Legislature.

Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/ X: @nwpg_dard
Contact Person: Director, Communication Services: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za

OR

For enquiries:
Ms Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za

Mahikeng-The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development confirms an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, specifically in the JB Marks Local Municipality

In the first incident, the Department was alerted by a Private Veterinarian who had visited the farm and saw suspicious signs. The State Veterinarian collected samples, which were sent to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute (OVI) to test for the disease.

Another incident was first detected at an abattoir in Madibeng. The clinical signs of the affected animals were missed at ante-mortem inspection but were detected on the slaughter line during the Meat Inspection process. Tissue samples were sent to the laboratory and the results came back confirming both SAT 2 and SAT 3 types of the virus.

The unslaughtered animals were escorted back to the farm of origin, a feedlot in Ventersdorp, through a Red Cross permit. Both farms linked to the outbreak have been put under quarantine, prohibiting the movement of animals and animal products.

The Department has identified all the farms that are linked to the Gauteng outbreak and are being sampled for testing to confirm if they are positive or not. All such farms have also been put under precautionary quarantine until the test results are back.

Any suspected case of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in susceptible animals must be reported to the local State Veterinarian immediately. FMD affects cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed animals (domestic and wild). The major clinical features of the disease include fever, lameness, and the appearance of vesicles and sores in the mouth, feet, and teats.

For more information and enquiries contact: Dr Langa Madyibi Director Veterinary Services on 066 190 9190

End issued by ## ends ##

Issued by the Communication Services Directorate
For more information, contact the Departmental spokesperson: Emelda Setlhako
Cell:060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.nwpg.gov.za/Agriculture/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

Mahikeng- The Taung Agricultural College (TAC) will host the graduation ceremony on Friday, 30 May 2025, celebrating 33 students who have completed their Diploma in Agriculture specialising in Irrigation at NQF Level 6.
The 2025 graduating class comprises 14 female and 19 male students, all equipped with essential skills to contribute effectively to sustainable agricultural development within their communities and beyond.
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event, which is scheduled to take place as follows:
Date : Friday, 30 May 2025
Venue : Taung Agricultural College
Time : 09:00
Issued by
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Director : Ms Emelda Setlhako
For interviews, call : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

For enquiries, contact:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com/ KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za