News – North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

MEC SAMBATHA URGES FARMERS TO REGISTER ON THE DEPARTMENT’S DATABASE

Mahikeng – The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West, Madoda Sambatha, is calling on all farmers in the province to register their farming enterprises on the Departmental Farmer Database, highlighting it as a strategic step in preparing the sector for a new generation of agricultural
professionals.
The database, developed and managed by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), is aimed at building a reliable and inclusive profile of farmers operating across the province.
Most significantly, registered farms will serve as practical training sites for agricultural graduates as part of the upcoming 2025/2026 Internship Programme.
“Farmer participation is key to the success of this programme. We want to see every farm become a platform for growth, not only for its productivity but also for nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders,” said MEC Sambatha
MEC Sambatha went further to say: “This is more than an administrative process, it is about opening doors for young people who are ready to make their mark in agriculture. By registering, farmers are helping shape the future of the sector, offering mentorship, and gaining access to motivated interns who
bring fresh skills and innovation to the field.”
The internship programme will see qualified graduates placed on registered farms for hands-on learning and skills development, contributing to both youth empowerment and the operational capacity of participating farms. The initiative forms part of the Department’s broader agenda to bridge the gap between training and employment while building a sustainable, skills-driven agricultural economy.
Farmers are encouraged to fill in the registration form with care, ensuring all details are accurate and up to date. The information provided will remain strictly confidential and will be used solely to inform planning and strengthen support across the sector. Registration can be done easily online by following
the link available on the Department’s official website.
This effort is one of several initiatives positioning the North West’s agricultural sector for inclusive, longterm growth rooted in data, collaboration, and the strategic development of human capital.

For more information or assistance with registration, farmers may contact their nearest agricultural office
or visit www.dard.nwpg.gov.za.
Issued by
The Directorate Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
For interviews, contact Spokesperson: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
For enquiries contact:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com
KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

MEC Sambatha Empowers Emerging Farmers in Bojanala District with Strategic Agricultural Support

Koster – North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, accompanied by the Head of Department (HoD) Thupi Mokhatla and the Bojanala District MMC for Agriculture and Local Economic Development (LED) Matshediso Mangwathe, conducted oversight visits to local agricultural projects in the Kgetlengrivier Local Municipality.

A key highlight of the visit was the inspection of infrastructure and equipment handed over to Kenneth Masilo, a lucerne and livestock farmer based in Swartruggens. Masilo received comprehensive support that included a tractor, mould board plough, centre pivot irrigation system, a newly constructed reservoir, a cold room, and the re-equipping of existing boreholes on his 500-hectare farm.

Originally a vegetable farmer, Masilo now also farms cattle, goats, sheep, and wildlife. He expressed deep appreciation for the Department’s intervention, noting that the support has enabled him to access new markets, maintain profitability, and ensure a consistent feed supply for his livestock. “This support has turned my farm into a sustainable business. I can now meet market demands and secure better productivity,” said Masilo.

As part of the Food Security Programme, MEC Sambatha also visited Reagile Township in Koster, where Ms Kefilwe Maimane received 120 Amberlink point-of-lay chickens, a three-tier layer cage, and 50 bags (50kg each) of layer mash feed. The initiative aims to enhance household food production and encourage women-led families to grow their own food, ensuring a steady supply of nutritious meals while generating income.

In another empowerment effort, Mr Thabiso Lekgetho, a military veteran, received 10 Boer goats and one breeding buck to boost his small-stock farming enterprise. The Onalerona Health Care Centre was also supported with a shade net to strengthen their community health and gardening projects.

These interventions reaffirm the Department’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development and the economic empowerment of rural communities. “These interventions are part of our broader mission to build resilient local economies and ensure food security through targeted agricultural investments,” said MEC Sambatha.

The Department continues to drive inclusive agricultural transformation across the province by equipping local farmers and cooperatives with the infrastructure, tools, and resources they need to succeed.

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

SCAM ALERT: FRAUDULENT PAYMENT REQUESTS TARGETING SERVICE PROVIDERS

Mahikeng – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has been alerted to fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating departmental officials and targeting service providers who previously submitted bids for the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES), specifically for shade nets and cattle
feed.
These fraudsters have been using the numbers 071 287 2164 (Mr Khumalo) and 076 745 9884 (Mr Modiba) to falsely identify themselves as Department officials. They are demanding R3, 000 from service providers, claiming that the payment is required to secure PES-related orders.

This is a deliberate and unlawful scam. The PES Phase 3 programme concluded in the previous financial year, and no ongoing procurement processes are associated with it. The Department does not request, nor accept, any form of payment in exchange for awarding contracts or tenders. Any such request is fraudulent and must be treated as a criminal act.

We strongly urge service providers not to engage with these individuals, not to transfer any funds, and to report any suspicious communication immediately to the Department or the South African Police Service.

We commend those service providers who acted responsibly by reporting these fraudulent attempts and verifying the legitimacy of these claims. Your vigilance plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of public programmes and protecting businesses from exploitation.
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development remains committed to ensuring fair, transparent, and ethical procurement practices. We are working closely with the relevant authorities to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this scam.

Issued by
The Directorate Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
For interviews, contact Spokesperson: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
For enquiries contact:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com
KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

WATER RELIEF FOR COMMUNAL LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN SOME PARTS OF DR RUTH SEGOMOTSI MOMPATI DISTRICT

Mahikeng – In a decisive move to strengthen rural livestock farming and deliver on its service commitments, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has improved water access for communal livestock farmers in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District. This development marks a meaningful step towards securing sustainable agriculture in some of the province’s most water-stressed areas.

Through targeted interventions and strategic infrastructure upgrades, the Department has brought much-needed relief to farming communities that have long contended with unreliable water sources.

More than a dozen villages across Kagisano-Molopo and Greater Taung Local Municipalities are now benefitting from restored, upgraded, and newly developed water systems. These improvements include the installation of windmills, submersible pumps, high-capacity storage tanks, and the drilling and equipping of new boreholes, ensuring farmers have consistent and reliable access to water for their livestock.

Speaking on the significance of this initiative, MEC Madoda Sambatha said this is a major step in the right direction. “For us, farmers are a priority. Without water, there is no farming, and without farming, there is no rural economy. What we have achieved in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati is a clear example of how the government must respond to the needs of its people. We are not done, there are still areas in need, but this marks a firm beginning,” said MEC Madoda Sambatha.

In Kagisano-Molopo, communal farmers in Langpomp, Gamongalenyane 1, Maheng, Setabeng, and Matlhabatlhabe now enjoy improved access to water following the installation of new windmills, rehabilitation of boreholes, and construction of reservoirs.

In Greater Taung, eight villages—Comforthill, Choseng, Tlapeng, Fairview, Mogopela B, Tamasikwa, Maphoitsile, and Manthe—are already experiencing the benefits of upgraded boreholes, new pumps, and reticulation system that feeds into a new 60,000-litre Zinc storage tank.
For farmers like Mr Pucoe Oatlhotse of Kgomotso Village, under the Baga Mothibi Tribal Authority, the intervention has had a tangible impact. “We are truly encouraged by the progress we are seeing. Access to clean water is making it easier for us to care for our livestock. The Department’s support has brought real change on the ground, and we are grateful,” Oatlhotse remarked.
As part of its broader livestock support strategy, the Department has also installed handling facilities alongside existing dipping tanks, enabling safer and more efficient livestock management during health inspections and disease control operations.

These efforts are not only helping sustain livestock farming in the district but are also reinforcing food security and stimulating local rural economies.
The Department is currently assessing additional areas across the province for similar interventions, as it continues to roll out its mandate to support agricultural development and climate-resilient farming systems.

CAPTIONS
IMAGE 5893: Farmer, Mr Pucoe Oatlhotse from Kgomotso Village stands next to the Mr Pucoe Oatlhotse from Kgomotso Village stands next to the new livestock handling new livestock handling facilityfacility built by the Department to support safer and more efficient animal health and disease control.built by the Department to support safer and more efficient animal health and disease control.
IMAGES: 5816 & 5903: New water infrastructure in KagisanoNew water infrastructure in Kagisano–Molopo and Greater Taung is helping farmers Molopo and Greater Taung is helping farmers care for their livestock, with improved access to clean water.care for their livestock, with improved access to clean water.
Issued by
Issued by
The Directorate
The Directorate of of Communication Services Communication Services
North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
For interviews call the Departmental Director
For interviews call the Departmental Director: Ms Emelda Setlhako: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell
Cell : 0: 06060 745 4020745 4020
Email
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
For other enquiries, contact:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread
www.facebook.com/nwpread
X :
X : @nwpg_dard

Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Partners with North West University to Equip 40 Young Farmers with Entrepreneurial Skills

Magaliesburg – In a major step toward building a prosperous and inclusive economy, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), in partnership with the North West University Business School (NWU), celebrated the achievements of forty (40) young farmers from the North West Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (NWYARD) structure, who completed the Agri-preneurship Programme. The awards ceremony took place on Thursday, 24 April 2025.
The Agri-preneurship Programme, a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 Short Learning Programme in Entrepreneurial Skills, is designed to equip young farmers with essential business and entrepreneurial skills, empowering them to run and grow sustainable agri-businesses.
MEC Madoda Sambatha highlighted the shared commitment of both the Department and the University in nurturing the next generation of agricultural leaders. “By investing in the training of young farmers, we can unlock the province’s full potential, creating a skilled generation capable of leading the North West to a future filled with opportunity and driving its economic growth,” said MEC Sambatha.
The forty young farmers, drawn from across the province’s four districts, participated in intensive contact training sessions, delivered over three study schools of two weeks each, culminating in November 2024. NWYARD, officially established to champion the development of young farmers in the agriculture and rural development
sectors, played a pivotal role in the programme.
Expressing gratitude, Ipeleng Kwadi Seboni, farmer and chairperson of NWYARD, said, “This training will make a significant difference in how we manage our farming operations and foster stronger collaborative partnerships. We are truly thankful to the Department and the University for investing in our future.”
The Agri-preneurship Programme is expected to not only enhance the entrepreneurial capabilities of these young farmers but also boost food production and strengthen the agricultural economy of the North West Province.

256A0719.JPG – MEC Madoda Sambatha celebrates the top five achievers of the Agri-preneurship Programme,
a partnership between the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the North West University
Business School.
256A0672.JPG – MEC Madoda Sambatha addressing young farmers at the Certification Ceremony of the Agripreneurship Programme, a collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the
North West University Business School.
Issued by
The Directorate 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:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com
KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

MEC Madoda Sambatha Hands Over 5000-Layer Poultry Structure to Bongi G in JB Marks Municipality

Lindequesdrift – In efforts to strengthen rural economies, combat poverty, and ensure food security across the province, the MEC for North West Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, officially handed over a state-of-the-art 5,000-layer poultry structure to emerging farmer Sibongile Gumede of Bongi G Farm in Lindequesdrift, during the 4th Phase of the Accelerated Service Delivery Programme on Friday, 25 April 2025, in the JB Marks Municipality.

The 5,000-layer facility will enable Bongi G Farm to scale up egg production significantly, contributing to local food supply chains and creating employment opportunities within the province. Bongi G is an enterprise dedicated to producing naturally grown, free-range poultry and eggs. The farm’s eggs undergo regular grading by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) to ensure quality.

MEC Sambatha emphasised the importance of empowering small-scale farmers with the infrastructure and resources necessary for sustainable growth. “The handover is not just about providing a farm, it’s about creating growth opportunities, ensuring food security, and nurturing the essence of entrepreneurship within farmers,” said MEC Sambatha.

He further encouraged Bongi G to utilise the resources available to them responsibly and to continue working towards sustainable agricultural practices that will benefit future generations.

Speaking about receiving the state-of-the-art poultry structure, Sibongile Gumede said, “I am beyond grateful to the department for this opportunity. I am now able to sustain myself, create jobs, and, through the progress I have made, I have even managed to build a 3,000-layer structure on my own,” said an ecstatic Gumede.

The handover of the farm marks a momentous breakthrough in the province’s ongoing efforts to promote agricultural development, empowering local farmers and strengthening the agricultural sector, whilst ensuring that local farmers have the tools and support they need to thrive.

CAPTIONS

IMAGE 676A0049 & 676A0038:- MEC Madoda Sambatha and Sibongile Gumede during the official handover of Bongi G, a layer project
Issued by
The Directorate 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:
Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915 ktshangela06@gmail.com KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread

APPLICATIONS OFFICIALLY OPEN FOR THE 2026 INTAKE AT TAUNG AND POTCHEFSTROOM AGRICULTURAL COLLEGES

Mahikeng – The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development invites aspiring agriculturists to apply for the 2026 academic intake at Taung Agricultural College (TAC) and Potchefstroom College of Agriculture (PCA). Applications officially opened on 1 April 2025 and will close on 31 October 2025.
MEC Madoda Sambatha has called on all prospective students to apply early to avoid late submissions and the risk of missing this life-changing opportunity. “Agriculture is the backbone of our province’s economy, and the youth are the future of this vital sector. I urge all young people with a passion for farming and food production to apply without delay. Do not wait until the last minute, secure your space now and prepare to grow with the industry,” said MEC Sambatha.
TAC and PCA are more than academic institutions—they are catalysts for cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders. Whether aspiring to become innovative farmers, cutting-edge researchers, skilled technicians, or forward-thinking agribusiness professionals, students are equipped with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the sector. These colleges offer in-demand diploma programmes tailored to meet the evolving needs of agriculture: a Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation) at Taung Agricultural College and a Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture) at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.
Admission requirements for TAC’s Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation) include a National Senior Certificate or equivalent qualification, with English at Level 4, Life Sciences or Agricultural Sciences at Level 3, Mathematics at Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy at Level 4, and Physical Sciences at Level 3 as an advantage. PCA’s Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture) requires Afrikaans or English at a minimum of Level 4 (50–59%), with compulsory subjects such as Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Management Practices, or Agricultural Technology. Mathematics, Physical Science, Business Economics, Life Sciences, Accounting, Mathematical Literacy, and Engineering are recommended. Applicants must obtain at least 24 points on the Swedish Rating Scale, with Level 3 or higher in six relevant subjects, excluding Life Orientation.

Application forms can be collected directly from the respective colleges or downloaded from the Department’s website at www.dard.nwpg.gov.za.
Enrolling at TAC or PCA is not just a choice, it is a must for anyone serious about becoming a force in agriculture. TAC is the only institution in South Africa offering a Diploma in Agriculture (Irrigation), equipping students with niche skills in water-smart farming. PCA offers a robust and comprehensive Diploma in Agriculture (Mixed Agriculture), opening doors across the agricultural value chain.
Both colleges are known for practical training, expert instruction, and producing graduates who contribute meaningfully to food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Choosing one of these colleges means choosing a future of purpose, productivity, and agricultural excellence.
Apply now by visiting the Department’s website or contacting the colleges directly for assistance with the application process.
Taung Agricultural College (TAC):
Vuyiswa Mziwakhe: +27 60 504 814 Neo Makhobela: +27 68 379 3026
Potchefstroom College of Agriculture (PCA):
Mr Ismail Haffejee: +27 18 285 0701
Ms Lebo Mpiti: +27 18 285 0700
Ms Patricia Mngomezulu: +27 18 285 0735
Issued by
The Directorate of Communication Services
North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
For interviews call the Departmental Director: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Cell : 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za

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

DARD and North West University Launch Agricultural Hub to Empower Farmers and Strengthen Regional Economy

Mahikeng – The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), in collaboration with North West University’s (NWU) Mahikeng Campus, officially launched an Agricultural Hub at the Molelwane Research Farm on Monday, 3 March 2025. This initiative aims to drive innovation, research, and skills development in the agricultural sector. The launch, attended by key stakeholders, marks a significant milestone in the province’s commitment to enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and empowering local farmers.
The Agri-Hub will serve as a centre of excellence, focusing on strengthening both livestock and crop value chains.
North West Premier Kagiso Lazarus Mokgosi highlighted the hub’s role in positioning the province as a leading exporter of agricultural products. “The hub is a strategic investment in the local economy, reinforcing agriculture as a cornerstone of the province’s economic foundation. It will provide farmers with essential resources to improve their livelihoods, increase productivity, and promote sustainable farming practices. Through market linkages, branding strategies, and supply chain optimization, we will elevate our province’s status as a premier exporter of agricultural goods. Trade and exports not only generate revenue but also attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate industrial development. By aligning our agricultural output with international demand, we can open new doors for economic prosperity while ensuring long-term food security for our people,” said Premier Mokgosi.
The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, highlighted that this collaboration between the Department and the university not only strengthens the capacity of farmers but also ensures that agricultural development keeps pace with modern technological advancements and meets global market demands. “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to the agricultural sector and the people who form its backbone,” he added, underscoring the importance of supporting farmers and enhancing the sector’s growth.
The Agri-Hub will offer tailored programmes in research, training, and skills development to address local agricultural challenges. NWU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka, emphasized the hub’s role in advancing agriculture, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable practices. He highlighted the opportunity for smallholder and emerging farmers to access training, modern tools, and global markets, while helping commercial farmers expand and improve competitiveness.
Stud farmers in the province hailed the launch as a great initiative by the Department and North West University, noting that it will greatly benefit both emerging and established farmers in the region.
More than just a project, the Agri-Hub represents a long-term investment in the future of agriculture. It is expected to drive job creation, rural development, and sustainable agricultural growth, ensuring the sector remains resilient in the face of challenges such as climate change, market fluctuations, and the increasing demand for food security.
A key component of the Agri-Hub is its focus on innovation. Additionally, skills development programmes will empower young people and aspiring entrepreneurs in rural communities, creating a pipeline of talent for the future of agriculture. The Agri-Hub’s emphasis on handson training and capacity-building aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Picture Captions:
IMAGE 676A9192: MEC Madoda Sambatha, Professor Bismark Tyobeka, and other dignitaries perform the ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the Agri-Hub launch.
IMAGE IMG 1124: During his address, Premier Lazarus Mokgosi emphasized the need for accelerated groundwork by the Agri-Hub structure.
IMAGE IMG 1125: Farmers in attendance were encouraged to reclaim their position as the country’s leading producers of diverse agricultural commodities.
End.

Issued by the Directorate Communication Services
North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Director: Ms. Emelda Setlhoko
Tel: 018 384 3117
Cell: 060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za www.facebook.com/nwpread
X: @nwpg_dard

For inquiries,
Contact: Ms. Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
E-mail: ktshangela06@gmail.com KTshangela@nwpg.gov.z

POTCHEFSTROOM COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE TO CONFER 82 GRADUATES

Mahikeng –North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi and MEC for Agriculture and Rural
Development Madoda Sambatha will lead the prestigious Potchefstroom College of Agriculture
summer graduation ceremony, where 82 graduates will be conferred with Diploma in
Agriculture in Mixed Farming.

Among the graduates, forty-five (45) are male, accounting for 55.8%, while thirty-seven (37)
are female, making up 44.2% of the cohort.

The ceremony will honour the graduates’ dedication and perseverance in advancing the
agricultural sector. Equipped with vital skills and knowledge, they are poised to make
significant contributions to food security, rural development, and economic growth in the
province.

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event scheduled to take place as
follows:

Date : Friday, 28 February 2025
Venue: Potchefstroom College of Agriculture, Alex Holm Hall
Time : 09:00

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

For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell: 060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
For inquiries, please contact:
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer: Ms Khutala Tshangela
Cell: 066 458 6915
Email: KTshangela06@gmail.com / KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread
X: @nwpg_dard

NORTH WEST AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT SPARKS FARMING REVOLUTION WITH FARMERS MARKET DAY ROLLOUT

Mahikeng- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has officially launched
the Farmers Market Day initiative, a ground-breaking effort aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, boosting
local economies, and empowering small-scale farmers across various municipalities in the province.

The initiative is designed to connect farmers directly with consumers, providing a vibrant marketplace for selling
fresh, locally produced goods while enhancing food security and economic growth. By cutting out intermediaries,
Farmers Market Day ensures that producers receive fair value for their produce, while consumers gain access to
affordable, high-quality agricultural products.

MEC Madoda Sambatha has hailed the initiative as a game-changer in strengthening rural economies and
transforming the agricultural landscape of the province. “Through this program, we are not only promoting
sustainability but also ensuring that emerging farmers have access to markets and the support they need to
thrive. We, therefore, urge local communities, residents, and businesses to support this initiative by attending
the markets and purchasing fresh, locally grown produce, thereby contributing to the growth and development
of the agricultural sector in the North West Province,” stated MEC Sambatha.

The Farmers Market Day will be launched across different municipalities, showcasing a diverse range of
agricultural products, from fresh produce to livestock and processed goods. The Matlosana Local Municipality
successfully hosted the first Farmers Market Day, followed by the Greater Taung Local Municipality.The next
Farmers Market Day is scheduled for 07 March 2025 in Mamusa Local Municipality, with additional municipalities
expected to follow suit at a later stage.

During these market days, the Department provides producers and SMMEs with technical support to enhance
productivity, capacity-building workshops focusing on food safety, quality standards, and business operations as
well as improved product offerings to meet consumer demands
Speaking at the recent Farmers Market Day in Taung, a poultry farmer, Ms. Tshegofatso Tekolo from Extension
7 in Taung, expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “The Farmers Market is a step forward in connecting us as
smallholder farmers and business owners with the wider community,” said Ms. Tekolo.

The Farmers Market Day initiative aligns with DARD’s commitment to supporting smallholder farmers, improving
food security and enhancing economic opportunities for rural residents.

By creating these dedicated spaces for farmers and SMMEs, the Department aims to reduce market access
barriers, boost local trade, and empower communities to thrive in a sustainable and economically viable manner.

PHOTO CAPTIONS
PHOTOS 676A1393 & 676A1284: Farmers proudly displaying their products at the recent Farmers
Market Days.

For inquiries, contact:
Media Liaison Officer: Ms Khutala Tshangela
Cell: 066 458 6915
Email: KTshangela06@gmail.com / KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za

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
Website: www.dard.nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpread
X: @nwpg_dard

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