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Mahikeng– Farmer support and rural development were firmly in the spotlight when North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, delivered the Department’s Budget Vote and Policy Speech on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 at the North West Provincial Legislature. The R1.2 billion budget sets out focused measures aimed at improving support for farmers and strengthening agricultural production in the province.

A key feature of the budget is investment in farmer skills development, with R8 327 100 allocated totrain more than 2 200 farmers in crop production, animal production and agro-processing. This training is expected to improve productivity and help farmers meet required standards.

To strengthen ongoing support, the Department has allocated R10 649 100 for farmer mentorship programmes. This will provide practical guidance to farmers and improve farm management and
sustainability. In addition, R12 053 923 has been set aside to support unemployed agricultural graduates through training and stipends. This intervention aims to grow a new generation of farmers and build capacity within the sector. These combined initiatives bring the total investment in farmer development to R22 703 023, reflecting a focused effort to equip farmers with the skills and support needed to grow their enterprises.

The budget also prioritises production support, with R153.1 million allocated through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP). This funding will assist farmers with inputs
such as seeds, fertiliser and infrastructure to improve output.

To ensure farmers receive technical assistance, MEC Sambatha has announced a budget of R35.5 million for extension and advisory services. This will help improve access to expertise and strengthen service delivery across farming communities.

“This investment is meant to bring services closer to farmers and ensure that the support they need is available where they operate. Through strengthened extension and advisory services, we are
working to improve access to technical expertise, enhance productivity and assist farmers to run sustainable and competitive enterprises,” said MEC Sambatha

Farmers have welcomed the budget, noting its focus on practical support. Kesaobaka Sejesho, an emerging poultry farmer and agro-processor from Christiana in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati
District Municipality, said: “I am encouraged by this year’s DARD budget vote. It is refreshing to see a stronger focus on supporting youth, women, agro-processors, and poultry farmers. As an emerging poultry farmer and agro-processor working towards becoming a commercial producer, I finally feel seen and included in this vision.

“I am particularly encouraged by the commitment to commercialising emerging farmers, strengthening agro-processing, investing in skills development, and creating employment opportunities. These are the kinds of interventions that can transform small farming businesses into sustainable commercial enterprises. My hope is that the budget allocated will translate into real opportunities on the ground, helping emerging farmers grow, create jobs, and contribute to the economy, especially after the significant employment losses our province has experienced. I look forward to seeing these commitments become tangible results, and I hope that next year we will be telling a very different success story for agriculture in the North West,” Sejesho said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Neo Mohlamme, a farmer from the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, said the speech covered key areas affecting farmers, including rural projects and farmer development
initiatives. She noted that it reflects the realities faced by farmers and highlights areas that requireattention.

She further welcomed the Department’s plans to assist farmers without land, saying this would create opportunities for new entrants and enable more people to participate in agriculture and expand production.

The budget sets out a clear direction for farmer support, with focus on skills development, production support and improved access to opportunities as the Department works to grow the agricultural sector. The Department has called on farmers, stakeholders and partners to work together to ensure that the planned interventions translate into real impact on the ground, strengthen rural livelihoods and contribute to economic growth across the province.

Ends
Issued by
The Communication Services Directorate
Enquiries: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Tel: 018 384 3117/ Cell: 060 745 4020
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Website:www.nwpg.gov.za/Agriculture/
Facebook:www.facebook.com/nwdard

Mahikeng- The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West Province confirms that
129,808 doses out of the 150,000 vaccines allocated have been administered, representing 86% usage. While
this marks steady progress in the vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the
Department acknowledges that more work lies ahead to ensure full coverage across all affected areas.
To date, 210 confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) have been reported across all municipalities of
the province, affecting different types of livestock. The majority of these reported cases involve cattle, with
206 cases, while 3 cases were in pigs and 1 case in goats.

The highest number of cases was recorded in Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District with 62 animals, followed by
Bojanala District with 59 animals. In Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, 49 animals were affected, while
Ngaka Modiri Molema District reported 40 animals. These figures highlight the spread of the disease across
species and districts, reinforcing the urgency of continued vaccination and vigilance.
Additional vaccine consignments are expected soon, which will allow the Department to extend coverage and
strengthen disease control measures. The campaign remains focused on vaccinating confirmed positive
animals, ring vaccination around buffalo farms, protecting dairy herds, and mass vaccination of cloven-hoofed
animals across the province.

The Department further encourages farmers to use permanent ear-tags with unique numbers to help speed up
the identification and vaccination of animals. Farmers and stakeholders are also urged to report any suspicion
of FMD immediately to local veterinarians or animal health technicians. Early reporting and cooperation remain
vital in preventing further spread and protecting the province’s agricultural sector.
MEC Madoda Sambatha has expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of farmers during this
challenging period. He assured farming communities that every farmer and every animal will be covered as
more vaccine doses arrive, and emphasized that the Department remains committed to working hand-in-hand
with stakeholders to contain the outbreak and safeguard livelihoods.

Issued by:

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

Mahikeng – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is driving forward
with unprecedented energy in the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). The vaccination
campaign has surged across all local municipalities, marking a decisive step in protecting the
province’s livestock and agricultural economy.

To date, over 111,297 animals have been vaccinated, with intensified operations continuing daily
and over weekends to maximize coverage. This effort follows the confirmation of 190 FMD cases
across the province, affecting cattle, pigs, and goats. The majority of infections are in cattle (186
cases), while pigs account for 3 cases and goats for 1 case. District-level figures reveal 61 cases in
Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, 56 in Bojanala, 37 in Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, and 36 in Ngaka Modiri
Molema.

The arrival of vaccines from Turkey (Dolvet) has further accelerated the campaign, with another
consignment expected soon to sustain the momentum. Farmers are urged to ensure their animals
are tagged with permanent identification numbers to speed up vaccination and tracking.

Speaking at one of the vaccination campaign sites, MEC Madoda Sambatha said: “We have
intensified the campaign by putting every resource at our disposal. The fight against Foot and Mouth
Disease is a fight for the heart of our province’s economy, and every vaccinated animal represents a
victory for food security, rural livelihoods, and the dignity of our farmers. To those villages and
farmers we have not yet reached, know that we will be there soon. No community will be left
behind. This campaign belongs to all of us, and together we will overcome it.”

Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to report any suspected cases immediately to their local
veterinary offices for swift intervention. The Department reiterates its commitment to working
closely with farmers to curb the spread of FMD and safeguard the livestock industry.

Issued by:

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

For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

Mahikeng – The rollout of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccines in the North West Province has officially
begun, with the first batch of cattle receiving injections as part of an intensified campaign to stop the
outbreak. This marks a decisive step in the province’s response, with the vaccination drive now in full swing
across affected districts to protect livestock, farmers, and rural communities.
FMD has already spread to 16 of the province’s 18 municipalities, with a combined total of 158 confirmed
cases across all four districts.

To curb the spread, the Department has secured 100,000 doses of Biogenesis Bago FMD Virus Vaccines,
unveiled by MEC Madoda Sambatha during a press conference held at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture
last Thursday, 05 March 2026.

MEC Sambatha stressed that vaccines will be distributed across all districts to ensure fairness and equal
access. “While priority will be given to the most affected areas, no farmer or village will be left behind.
Communal villages, where livestock movement and limited biosecurity measures increase risk, will be a
critical focus to build herd immunity and cut off transmission pathways,” MEC Sambatha said.

Alongside vaccination, veterinary teams are conducting daily outreach, information sessions, and biosecurity
awareness campaigns across the province. Priority is also being given to precautionary quarantine farms and
areas near buffalo populations, which are known carriers of the virus.

MEC Sambatha appealed directly to farmers, stressing the importance of early reporting: “Farmers must not
keep quiet when they see signs of Foot and Mouth Disease. Do not hide cases. You must be the first to
report them to your nearest veterinary clinic or extension officer. If you report early, it will help the province
stop the disease from spreading. This sickness does not move on its own; it is moved by us when we move
animals without care. That means we also have the power to stop it. By reporting quickly and working
together, we can protect our cattle, our villages, and our livelihoods.”

Farmers are strongly encouraged to report any suspicious signs immediately to the nearest veterinary facility
or inform extension officers. By acting quickly and responsibly, communities can help contain the outbreak
and protect the agricultural economy, food security, and rural livelihoods.
The Department assures all communities, whether in high-risk districts or smaller villages, that vaccines will
reach them. As the vaccination campaign gains momentum, the Department is expecting additional
consignments of FMD vaccines in the near future.

These new doses will allow the province to reach even more farmers, expand coverage across all districts,
and strengthen herd immunity to ensure that no community is left behind in the fight against Foot and Mouth
Disease.

###End###

Issued by:
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Communication Services Directorate
For interviews, contact the Departmental Spokesperson: Ms. Emelda Setlhako
Cell 060 745 4020
Email : ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard

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

Mahikeng- The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has stepped up efforts to
transform goat farming in the province, launching the Provincial Goat Improvement and Beneficiation
Programme at Koedsberg Farm on Friday, 05 December 2025.
The initiative, rolled out in collaboration with Aphamo Goat Aggregator and key partners, aims to improve
goat genetics, strengthen production systems, and create value-adding opportunities for emerging and
smallholder farmers in the province.

“This programme is truly a game-changer for the goat sector,” said Mr. Andrew Aphane, who will play a
critical role as the Goat Aggregator. “We are extremely excited to partner with DARD and work alongside
reputable institutions like the Agricultural Research Council and North-West University. Together, we will
improve breeding, increase productivity, support value addition, and strengthen the livelihoods of many
farmers, while positioning the North West Province as a leading player in the goat industry,” expressed
Aphane.

Emerging farmer Realeboga Mangwegape is among the first batch of beneficiaries who will receive goats to
improve his herd. “I am delighted to be part of the first group that will receive goats. This support will help
me improve my herd, and I am looking forward to the training and mentorship that will guide me to grow
my farm into a sustainable business,” he said.

Speaking at the launch, MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, highlighted the
programme’s transformative role in reshaping the goat farming sector and boosting rural livelihoods.
“Our responsibility as the Department is to change the status quo in goat farming, formalise the sector, and
increase its commercial value. Goats thrive in our environment and offer strong market opportunities. This
programme will ensure that goat farmers in the province not only participate but lead in the agricultural
economy, positioning the North West Province as a benchmark for goat farming excellence,” said MEC
Sambatha.

The North-West University and the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) will provide technical expertise,
research support, and scientific guidance throughout the programme. Their involvement will ensure that
breeding practices, herd management, and production techniques are informed by the latest research,
helping farmers adopt modern, sustainable, and commercially viable goat farming methods.
Through this scientific backing and strong market linkages, the programme will provide farmers with
improved breeding stock, technical training, advisory services, and access to aggregation platforms. By
enhancing goat production and supporting value chains, the initiative is set to increase farmer incomes,
create employment opportunities, and position the North West livestock sector as a key driver of rural
economic development.

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

Mahikeng- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with
Aphamo Goat Aggregator and other key stakeholders, will, on Friday, 05 December 2025, unveil one
of the province’s most ambitious agricultural programmes at Koedsberg Farm, where the Provincial
Goat Improvement and Beneficiation Programme will be launched.

The event is set to draw farmers from across the North West, neighbouring provinces, and several
SADC countries, accentuating the growing regional interest in the province’s rapidly expanding goat
industry.

Backed by the Agricultural Research Council and North-West University, the programme is set to
transform goat farming in the North West, using cutting-edge science and technology to turn
smallholder farmers into thriving commercial producers.

Members of the media are invited to attend this provincial milestone, engage with experts and
stakeholders, and capture a story that reflects innovation, farmer empowerment, and the evolving
future of agriculture in the North West.

Date : Friday, 05 December 2025
Time : 09h00
Venue : Koedsberg Farm, near Groot Marico
Media representatives wishing to attend are encouraged to confirm with Thebe Itumeleng at
063 203 3718 by 15:00 on OR before, Thursday, 04 December 2025.

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

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