In a significant stride towards enhancing agricultural productivity and uplifting local farmers, the MEC for the North West department of agriculture and rural development, Desbo Mohono, delivered a powerful message of support as she handed over a cutting-edge combine harvester to 40 grain farmers in Geluk village.
During the handover ceremony, Mohono expressed her gratitude for the farmers’ dedication and underscored the transformative potential of the new equipment.
Empowering grain farmers
“I urge you to continue with the same spirit as you begin to collectively utilise this harvester in your over 700 hectares of land. I am happy that complaints of high costs of harvesting will be greatly reduced. Let every one of the team members be developed in line with the modern technique of this machine,” she said.
Furthermore, she emphasised the broader impact of the harvester on the farmers’ livelihoods and the region’s food security.
“This machine is placing you at a commercial level, and you must know that you are now greatly carrying the responsibility of assisting in the improvement of food security levels of our province. This is a game-changer in your farming businesses,” she said.
Obakeng Lebethe, a representative of the Madibeng Grain Farmers, echoed Mohono’s sentiments, expressing appreciation for the department’s support.
He reflected on the journey leading up to the acquisition of the harvester, “The acquisition of the combine harvester brings to an end our four-year journey of collectively requesting government intervention in grain harvesting.
“That followed the high costs associated with harvesting, which mainly leaves us with close to no turnover,” he said.
Lebethe showcased his enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact and affirmed the farmers’ commitment to maximising its benefits.
“I have committed my team to a high level of work etiquette and to ensure that the harvester positively impacts the lives of all beneficiaries,” he said.
The department said it remains dedicated to closely monitoring the project’s progress, assessing performance metrics, and providing ongoing support to ensure its success.
“This collaborative effort between the government and local farmers exemplifies a shared commitment to driving agricultural development and economic transformation within the region,” Mohono said.
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