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The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture’s OR Tambo District hosted its annual Extension Advisory Services Awards to honour outstanding Extension and Advisory Officers. The event recognised excellence in farmer support, agricultural innovation, and community impact across the district.
What Happened
Extension and Advisory Officers presented their achievements and the work they do in assisting local farmers. Their roles include providing agricultural advice, linking farmers to funding opportunities, and facilitating access to markets. The district’s best performers were announced across several categories, with Phakama Nyingwa named Best Extension Practitioner – Candidate Natural Scientist and Mwanda Fezeka crowned Best Extension Practitioner – Certificated Natural Scientist.
Other winners included Mbenya Sinazo (Professional Natural Scientist), Mxolisi Mtyobile (Best Subject Matter Specialist), and Mlanjeni Dumisa (Best Extension Supervisor). The Legend/Lifetime Achiever Award went to Matinise Andiswa, while Vuyiswa Msila was runner-up.
Official Response
District management commended the winners for their dedication to agricultural development. “These awards celebrate the people who work tirelessly to uplift farmers and ensure food security,” said one official.
Community Impact
All district winners will represent OR Tambo at the upcoming Provincial Extension Awards, where they will compete with peers from other districts, stating the region’s continued commitment to excellence in agriculture.
