Marvellous Makhado and Mukovhe Matshaya, founders of Roana Eazyfarm in Tshaulu, Limpopo, have harnessed the potential of sustainable agriculture with aquaculture to transform their community, addressing rural development and local food security challenges head-on.
Makhado and Matshaya shared their innovative approach to farming sustainably in ways that stimulate and benefit the surrounding community, particularly the youth.
Sustainable practices at Roana Eazyfarm
The farm, which specialises in sustainable tilapia farming and crop production, was established from a deep interest in sustainable agriculture and a desire to tackle food security challenges in their local community.
Makhado explained that they use organic materials to feed the fish and recycle the nutrient-rich water from the fish ponds to irrigate crops.
“The inspiration came from observing the potential for aquaculture to provide nutritious food and create jobs in the community. The idea was not only to farm fish but also to promote environmentally friendly practices that will benefit the ecosystem,” Makhado said.
Matshaya added that their focus on promoting biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources extends to considering how water is sourced and utilised for irrigation. This holistic approach to farming at Roana Eazyfarm reflects their commitment to environmentally friendly practices that benefit both the local ecosystem and the community’s agricultural productivity.
How does it work?
Both aquaculture and crop farming are integrated to ensure sustainable practices. The fish are fed with organic materials, ensuring a natural and healthy growth process. The water used in the fish tanks, which becomes nutrient-rich, is repurposed for irrigating crops.
“The water that we use from the fish, we don’t just throw it away. We make sure that it is being used for irrigation as it contains high nutrients,” shared Matshaya.
This water, enriched with nutrients but free from harmful chemicals, enhances crop growth while minimising environmental impact, Matshaya noted.
By reusing water and focusing on organic farming methods, Roana Eazyfarm effectively reduces its climate impact and pollution levels. This holistic approach supports environmental health while ensuring that farming practices remain efficient and productive.
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Contributing to food security and employment
Makhado shared how Roana Eazyfarm contributes to local food security by consistently providing fresh fish and vegetables to the community. This steady supply of nutritious food is essential for meeting the community’s dietary needs.
Additionally, the farm has created employment opportunities, boosting the local economy and reducing unemployment rates, particularly among the youth.
“We have contributed to local food security by providing a steady supply of fresh fish and vegetables, which is essential to the community and the University of Venda,” Makhado said.
Youth development
One of Roana Eazyfarm’s key initiatives is empowering the youth in their community. Matshaya elaborated on how they involve young people in decision-making processes and provide them with hands-on training in aquaculture.
“We are using the bottom-up method, consulting the community, [and] engaging with the youth on how they can start to understand the aquaculture aspects. We have been working with different youth on our farm,” she said.
Through these efforts, nearly 24 young people have gained valuable knowledge in aquaculture, learning everything from constructing fish ponds to managing feeding schedules. The farm also provides promising young farmers with fingerlings to help them start their own fish farming operations.
“Youth have been coming in and out, practising, getting information from Marvellous, learning how to prepare a business proposal, and how to approach people about aquaculture. We are looking forward to reducing youth unemployment by introducing aquaculture to our community,” she said.
The farm also rewards promising young farmers with fingerlings to help them start their operations. Makhado emphasised the importance of research, understanding local market demands, and building a strong community network.
“We show them how to construct a standard fish pond, which is essential for every fish farmer to know, so they can achieve good productivity,” Makhado said. He also stressed the need for passion and perseverance, which are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Despite the lack of external support and resources, they are determined to continue growing the farm and providing more opportunities for young people interested in aquaculture.
“We are looking forward to minimising youth unemployment in our community through aquaculture,” Makhado concluded.
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