Mahikeng- Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has brought renewed hope and
practical support to women in Kabe village situated outside Mahikeng through the donation of essential
agricultural tools. This initiative is set to strengthen household food security, create livelihoods, and restore
dignity within the community.
By equipping women with the means to cultivate their own food, the programme promotes self-reliance
and resilience. It also encourages sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations. Beyond
food production, these tools open opportunities for income generation and local economic growth.
The handover ceremony, led by MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Madoda Sambatha, was
attended by MEC Susanna Basetsana Dantjie of Social Development, Chair of Chairs Hon. Tebogo Modise
from the Provincial Legislature, the traditional leadership of Kabe, and members of the local community, who
gathered to witness women being equipped to take charge of food production.
One of the beneficiaries, Keabetswe Methikga, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the
Department. “These tools will truly make a huge difference in our lives. We have always loved working the
land, but the lack of resources often discouraged us. After today, everything feels different. Even the birds
that used to destroy our crops will no longer be a problem, because we now have nets to protect our
gardens. Before this, we struggled to farm with very limited equipment. Some days we had to borrow, and
on other days we couldn’t plant at all. With these tools, we can finally work the land properly, grow
enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children, Methikga said.
Addressing the gathering, MEC Sambatha emphasized that the programme forms part of the Department’s
broader work to empower women and build sustainable food systems at the local level. “This intervention is
about more than tools; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. When we support women in
agriculture, we are directly supporting families, fighting poverty, and strengthening food security. These
women are not just beneficiaries; they are producers and partners in the development of our province,” MEC
Sambatha said.
MEC Sambatha added that hunger and poverty expose communities, especially women and children to
numerous social ills. “By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen
the social fabric of our society. We will continue working closely with the Department of Social Development
to ensure that these women receive the necessary support to make their projects sustainable,” MEC
Sambatha concluded.
The traditional leadership welcomed the initiative and pledged their continued support. Speaking on behalf
of the Royal House, Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “As custodians of the land, we are pleased to see the
government working hand in hand with our communities. When our women are empowered to produce food,
the entire village benefits. We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries, encouraging active
participation, and ensuring that these tools are used for their intended purpose.”
The tool donation in Kabe marks another practical step by the provincial government to place women at the
centre of agricultural development, ensuring they are not only recipients of aid but active drivers of food
production, economic participation, and community resilience.
Through rural development and food security programmes, this initiative will be expanded to communities
across all four districts of the province. By equipping women with the tools and skills to cultivate their own
livelihoods, we are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building resilient households.
Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Acting Director: Mr Prince Seokotsa
Email: PSeokotsa@nwpg.gov.za
Cell : 078 456 6352
Facebook :www.facebook.com/nwpread
X : @nwpg_dard