Agricultural producers and Community Property Associations (CPAs) in Tigane, near Clerksdorp, received a tractor and other agricultural equipment. These tools were handed over by Madoda Sambata, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for the North-West.
According to the department, this handover was a necessary step aimed at solving the problem of limited access to agricultural machinery among small and emerging farmers, as well as strengthening agricultural activities in rural areas.
The tractor will be used as a shared service for farmers from the CPAs Seven Seasons, Oblate, Thusanang, and Ikageng in the Tigane community. In addition to the tractor, the department also provided a sprayer with attached equipment and a plough to enhance the production capabilities of the farmers.
Limited access to mechanization remains a serious obstacle to agricultural production, especially among emerging farmers. Therefore, providing farmers with necessary equipment is critical for increasing productivity, boosting yields, and strengthening the food security of households and communities.
One of the beneficiaries and a local farmer, Ramasimane Kaloute, expressed gratitude for the support provided. He noted: 'I want to thank our Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for the North-West, Madoda Sambata. This will greatly help us as emerging farmers here in Tigane. Farming without the necessary equipment can be difficult, but we are grateful for this support and promise to use the equipment as intended.'
Sambata emphasized that ensuring farmers have access to machinery is vital for improving agricultural production and supporting livelihoods in underserved rural areas. He stated: 'We have provided the tractor and other equipment to assist small and emerging farmers in Tigane. This support will help increase crop yields and secure livelihoods by improving access to mechanization.'
Madoda Sambata added that this initiative aligns with the commitment to improving rural farming communities. He explained that the transferred tractor and equipment are not just machines, but indispensable tools for scaling up production, strengthening livelihoods, and enhancing food security.
He also reported that this measure is part of the province's broader strategy to transform the agricultural sector, reduce poverty, and increase the resilience of small farmers. Sambata noted that through such interventions, the department strengthens farmers' access to the resources needed to increase production, improve living conditions, and contribute to food security across the province.