EC subsistence farmers plough for their future

KEISKAMMAHOEK - South Africans are buckling under the current economic climate and putting food on the table is also proving to be a daunting task for many families.

But some communities in the Eastern Cape say they are choosing to pursue farming to guarantee their families' food security.

Phumlani Satyi says he started his poultry business after he lost his job in 2021.

The Zwelitsha resident says he had no information before starting his business venture. 

Satyi said, "I felt instead of me waiting to have resources I should start small. But I intended that I had plans for the future to have my place, an open place, so I am still working on that but what limits me at the moment is resources, particularly finances."

Siphosihle Maseko is an emerging farmer whose passion for farming started whilst he was at university.

READ: EC Rural Development in partnership to upscale small-scale farmers

The 29-year-old says hopes that government will do more for emerging farmers.                                                                          

Maseko said, "I would like to see the government assisting us more they are assisting us with production costs, tractors, and everything but I would love them to add more because we have learned a lot."

60-year-old Nothemba Matiwane is a trainee at the Zanyokhwe Farmer Production Support Unit. A project that is supported by the National Department for Agriculture, Land Reform, and, Rural Development.

She said what she has learned has helped her support her family.                                                                                    

The government says it has various programmes in place to deal with food security challenges.

EC Agriculture Department acting chief director Phakamisa Mgedezi said, "Our Minister the honorable mama Thoko Didiza signed the beneficiary selection policy that seeks to enhance access to land for historically oppressed individuals. Also, access to land for previously vulnerable groups, which is women, youth, and also military veterans so that they can be able to access land and be able to produce freely and also get financial support."

Millions of South Africans still live below the poverty line.

With the country's economy in dire straits, it is hoped that more and more citizens learn how to farm to alleviate hunger.