THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality handed over fifteen permits to communal farming associations, benefiting more than 150 individuals, in the Kariega (Uitenhage) area, giving them permission to use municipal land to farm crops and livestock.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture Luxolo Namette said this is a major step in the right direction to empower communal farmers.
“Agriculture is an important vehicle in our drive towards food security and job creation.
“Six months ago, we handed over agricultural equipment to a significant number of beneficiaries in Kariega and today we are back to hand over permits.
“I am happy to also announce that all the recipients of permits will be part of a business incubation programme to enable them to operate their respective enterprises successfully.
“However, I would like to encourage you to diversify your operations beyond just livestock and crops,” Namette said.
He mentioned a snail farming enterprise, also known as heliciculture, of Robert Matsabisa from Wells Estate as a prime example of innovative farming produce. Snails are delicacies around the world and can also be used to make skincare products.
The Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture Directorate identified 5 700 hectares of municipal land in the Kariega area for the communal farmers. More communal farmers will also be identified to farm the same land.
“This is just the first step. More land will be identified and assessed in other areas to determine if it is suitable for agricultural purposes,” Namette said.
Victor Jonas, an emerging farmer from the Feeding for the Hungry – Farmers Association, said the permits will enable them to follow the law and invest in their businesses.
Mpho Pebane, Acting Executive Director for Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture, said the handover was long overdue.
“However, it is a critical step as the communal farmers are now recognised and enabled to seek funding and support from government entities and the private sector,” Pebane said.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Human Settlements, Tukela Zumani, made a commitment that both the fresh produce markets in Uitenhage and Gqeberha will be fully operational by the end of the year while delivering a message of support for the initiative.
The permits are valid for five years with the option to renew if farmers are successful. The permits can also be revoked if the land is used for purposes other than agreed upon or if any conditions are breached.
The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) also expressed their support for the farmers and their enterprises.
Issued on behalf of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
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