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Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Economic Development, Tourism, and Agriculture, Councillor Bassie Kamana, visited Waterlife Farm in Motherwell to assess progress in poultry, aquaculture, and herb cultivation. The farm, managed by local small-scale farmer Mr. Siyabulela Mali, is expanding rapidly with a focus on job creation, food security, and sustainable land use.
What Happened
Waterlife Farm, a 2-hectare site in Motherwell, has become a beacon of local agricultural innovation. Divided into poultry, aquaculture, and horticulture, the farm currently employs 20 staff members.
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Poultry operation: 50 hens aged 16–18 weeks are housed in a 250 m² facility, with 250 more ordered. The farm aims to reach 1,000 birds in the next three months.
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Aquaculture: Six tanks with a total capacity of 30,000 liters are being prepared for tilapia production, a highly demanded local fish outline in the South Africa’s aquaculture strategy.
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Horticulture: Culinary herbs such as rosemary and parsley are cultivated for niche markets, despite challenging limestone-rich soils.
Official Response
Councillor Bassie Kamana praised the project’s role in boosting livelihood, inking it to broader Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality initiatives:
“Waterlife Farm is not only producing food—it is reviving culture, fostering community cooperation, and creating jobs. This truly is a land of life.”
He emphasized the municipality’s commitment to supporting local farmers, scaling production, and integrating sustainable farming practices across Nelson Mandela Bay.
Community Impact
The initiative has become a symbol of hope for Motherwell residents. By employing locals and offering opportunities in farming, the project is:
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Improving access to fresh food and herbs
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Creating youth employment in agriculture
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Promoting knowledge-sharing and cultural revival
Community leaders believe this model could be replicated across the Eastern Cape to strengthen rural economies.
FAQ
Q: How many jobs has Waterlife Farm created so far?
A: The farm employs 20 workers, including two security staff.
Q: What is the next milestone for the poultry operation?
A: Reaching 1,000 birds within three months.
Q: How is water supplied for aquaculture?
A: Via trucks carrying spring water and by-product water from reverse osmosis plants, ensuring safe, regulated conditions for fish.
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