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The Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) has kicked off a high-impact programme to attract investors into rural agriculture. The initiative began with site visits to major farming projects in the Amathole region, demonstrating opportunities for public–private collaboration and unlocking market access for emerging farmers.
Their Story
On Monday, 13 October 2025, ECRDA launched its Investor Project Oversight Visits, aimed at strengthening partnerships and drawing new investment into rural agricultural economies. Leading the programme is ECRDA CEO Mr. Simpiwe Somdyala, who is hosting investors at various project sites across the province.
This initiative comes shortly after ECRDA entered into a formal partnership agreement with AgroPlat Invest Holdings, an international investment company exploring strategic rural ventures in the Eastern Cape.
“We are creating a platform for investment that uplifts our communities and drives long-term rural transformation,” said Somdyala during the first day of the programme.
The Site Visits
Day one included visits to key agricultural sites:
- Zanyokwe Irrigation Scheme
- Seven Stars Dairy in Keiskammahoek
- Middledrift Dairy Project
- Fort Hare Dairy under Amandlelo Agri
These locations showcase the scale and diversity of ECRDA-supported operations, from commercial dairy farming to irrigation-based crop production.
The delegation also included stakeholders from:
- The Department of Agriculture
- Amathole District Municipality
- Amahlathi Local Municipality
- Local cooperatives and farmers
Investors are being taken through operational models, land use planning, market potential, and sustainability strategies throughout the week.
Community Reactions
Local farmers have welcomed the initiative, seeing it as a breakthrough opportunity for growth, mentorship, and improved access to capital.
ECRDA emphasized that this programme reaffirms its commitment to building inclusive agricultural value chains, promoting local ownership, and creating jobs across the Eastern Cape’s rural economy.
Additional partners such as Agriculture House and other sector-based investors are expected to join upcoming visits.
