The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, has reiterated the significance of investing in small-scale farmers in the province.
This emerged when he handed over greenhouse tunnels estimated to the tune of R2,5 million to a local business, TJ Farm Fresh Enterprise is based in Bokfontein at the Madibeng Local Municipality.
According to the department, the enterprise specialises in the production of vegetables, and the handover will benefit the production with the new infrastructure, which is also set to improve the quality and quantity of their crop yields.
According to Sambatha, the donation will enhance the capacity of the establishment which specialises in vegetables production.
“By investing in small-scale farmers like TJ Farm Fresh, we are building a strong foundation for agriculture that can withstand challenges such as climate change and rising food prices,” said Sambatha.
In addition, Sambatha said the greenhouse tunnels will help improve production, efficiency and sustainability which will ultimately benefit the community.
The MEC is also optimistic that the support given to the enterprise will bolster employment creation while strengthening food security in the province.
The department’s investment coincides with the recent lifting of vegetable exports from South Africa to Botswana.
The department is encouraging local farmers to seize the opportunity of trade with the neighbouring country.
