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Key Takeaways
- Eastern Cape farmers to benefit from a new strategic partnership focused on improving crop and food production.
- ECRDA joins forces with African Seeds Group and Hello Choice to provide access to better inputs, markets, and digital tools.
- The initiative will prioritize smallholder and emerging farmers in producing grains, vegetables, and fodder crops.
A new strategic partnership is set to transform agriculture in the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with African Seeds Group and Hello Choice to support smallholder and emerging farmers with improved access to inputs, markets, training, and finance.
Their Story
ECRDA, led by CEO Mr. Simpiwe Somdyala, has been at the forefront of empowering rural communities through sustainable development. The new partnership reflects the agency’s commitment to driving agricultural transformation by teaming up with key players in the sector.
African Seeds Group, represented by Managing Director Mr. Mihan Louw, brings expertise in high-quality seed distribution, while Hello Choice, a digital marketplace for fresh produce, contributes innovation through its Co-Founder and CEO Mr. Grant Jacobs.
The Event/Occasion
The official signing of the MoU signals the start of an ambitious rural upliftment programme. Together, the partners will focus on:
- Supplying quality agricultural inputs and technical support
- Expanding market access through platforms like Hello Choice
- Introducing innovative financial support and resource mobilization
- Strengthening farmer training and capacity building
- Developing digital platforms for trade, finance, and supply chain management
Priority crops include summer and winter grains (maize, wheat, barley), vegetables (potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes), and fodder crops (lucerne, sorghum).
Community Reactions
The partnership is seen as a timely boost for farming communities in the province, many of whom have struggled with limited market access and outdated farming practices. With the inclusion of digital tools and market-driven strategies, local farmers are hopeful for improved yields and incomes.
