In a groundbreaking move aimed at growth in the province’s agricultural sector, the Gauteng department of agriculture, rural development, and environment has announced the launch of an ambitious funding initiative.
New-era farmers across priority areas such as poultry, piggery, grains, vegetables, red meat, cannabis, aquaculture, rabbit, bee farming, and agri-processing are being invited to apply for funding through the comprehensive agricultural support programme (Casp).
Opportunity for growth
The initiative represents a strategic effort by the Gauteng government to stimulate economic activity, create job opportunities, and combat poverty within the province. Applications are set to close on Friday, 8 March.
Speaking on behalf of the department, Gauteng MEC for social development, agriculture, rural development, and environment Mbali Hlophe, emphasised the programme’s inclusive nature. She extended a call to historically disadvantaged groups, including women, youth, and individuals living with disabilities, to participate and seize the opportunity for growth and empowerment.
“The Casp initiative aims to provide small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) farmers with critical financial support to enhance their farming operations. With a track record of success dating back to its establishment in 2004, the programme has seen an average of 250 beneficiaries per year, making tangible strides in bolstering Gauteng’s agricultural landscape.
“To ensure transparency and fairness, an independent evaluation and adjudication panel, comprising experts from diverse fields including economics, animal science, crop science, engineering, and food science, will oversee the selection process,” she said.
Application process
According to the department, prospective applicants must meet a set of conditional requirements, including the submission of a duly signed and dated application form, business registration on farmers’ registers, valid South African certified ID, confirmation of land tenure/ownership, and evidence of existing farming operations and their capacity to generate employment opportunities.
Applications, once meeting all criteria, may be submitted via email to gdardfarmersupport@gauteng.gov.za.
Prospective applicants can contact the respective responsible persons at these locations to obtain the necessary forms or assistance:
- Germiston Regional Office
- Address: 247 President Street
- Responsible Person: Dorcas Motloung
- Contact Details: 083 312 4693
- Vereeniging Regional Office
- Address: 36 Merriman Street
- Responsible Person: Makgukgudi Monrontse
- Contact Details:
- Phone: 010 345 1230
- Mobile: 066 489 1696
- Temba Animal Clinic
- Address: Stand 16 Stellenbosch, Jubilee Road
- Responsible Person: Melvin Francis
- Contact Details: 072 781 7006
- Bronkhorstspruit
- Address: 55 Market Street
- Responsible Person: Jeanette Ramathoka
- Contact Details: 072 768 5585
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