Potchefstroom – The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), incollaboration with the National Department of Agriculture (DoA), hosted a successful information sharing session at the Potchefstroom College of Agriculture (PCA) to unpack the details of the Blended Finance Scheme and Agro-Energy Fund.
The Blended Finance Scheme, a strategic collaboration between the Department of Agriculture, Land Bank,Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and ABSA, aims to enhance access to affordable
financing for qualifying farmers. This initiative combines grants and loan funding to support inclusive growth, agricultural expansion and energy-efficient farming practices.
More than 200 eligible farmers from across the province attended the session to gain insight into the application criteria, funding processes and opportunities available through both the Blended Finance Scheme and the Agro-Energy Fund.
Ms Elder Mtshiza, representing the National Department of Agriculture, presented the qualification criteria for both financial instruments. The session also included an interactive question-and-answer segment, giving farmers a platform to engage directly with presenters and gain clarity on the available
support mechanisms.
This initiative forms part of the national strategy to support the commercialisation of emerging farmers and promote sustainable energy use in agriculture through innovative blended financing mechanisms. The roadshow also highlighted funding opportunities aligned with the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP), including sectors such as aquaculture and industrial crops.
The meeting reflected government’s commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable agricultural sector. Through partnerships and knowledge sharing, government is empowering farmers to access
critical funding and resources that will enable them to grow viable and competitive enterprises.
PICTURE CAPTION:
IMG 4536: Ms Elder Mtshiza explained the process of accessing finance and the criteria farmers should
meet to be eligible for the grant-loan.
IMG 4538: The more than 200 farmers in attendance appreciated the department’s efforts in
empowering farmers with knowledge on financing mechanisms.
Issued by: The Directorate 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
Ms Khutala Tshangela
Media Liaison Officer to the MEC
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za