The North-West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) handed over
fifty (50) goats and five (5) rams to five female subsistence farmers across the five
municipalities in Bojanala District, the assistance is inclusive of medication for the livestock.
The support was through the department’s Food Security Programme during Accelerated
Service Delivery Programme – Thuntsa Lerole which was held in Borolelo Township,
Swartruggens on Friday, 13 October 2023.
During the hand over, MEC Desbo Mohono urged Kedibone Seikanelo, one of the five
recipients to massify her goats, ultimately turning her subsistence farming project into a
profitable business that can contribute to the alleviation of unemployment and poverty in
Borolelo.
The fifty-four (54) year old appreciated government’s determination in supporting various
categories of farmers. “Our government is restoring our trust by fulfilling its promises. This
marks the beginning of my goat farming journey and becoming an example to other
women that we are equally capable like men, to start and grow sustainable business in
agriculture. My duty now is to ensure that I multiply these goats so that other women can
learn from me that when you have a passion for farming it becomes easier to nurture your
business,” expressed Seikanelo.
In addition, fifteen (15) female headed indigent families and two (2) institutions were
supported with agricultural produce and vegetable seedlings for their backyard gardens.
Sophia Mothibedi, a pensioner and a subsistence farmer in Borolelo Township received
agricultural produce and seedlings which were planted in her vegetable garden by DARD
officials and MEC Mohono. “This initiative is a true reflection of how our government cares
for its people. My vegetable garden is a means for me to supplement monthly groceries
which my old age grant cannot buy for the month, especially fresh produce because I
cannot buy it in bulk. The seedlings planted adds to the variety of vegetables that I have
and will assist to feed my family nutritious food,” said Mothibedi.
During the 2023/2024 Budget Vote Speech, MEC Desbo Mohono asserted that the
Department will continue to pursue a ward-based approach and to target vulnerable
households. The department has developed an Integrated Food Security Provincial
Implementation Plan, which categorises food security initiatives earmarked to target 3 040
households and subsistence producers at the end of the financial year. Thuntsha Lerole
continues to elevate support and resources to needy and deserving communities to fight
poverty and hunger.
