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On 15 September 2025, Greater Kokstad Municipality, led by Councilor Siyabulela Zangqa, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, officially handed over production inputs to local farmers at the Indoor Sport Center. The initiative, aimed at strengthening maize production and household food security, will support 50 maize projects covering 883 hectares and benefit 280 farmers across multiple wards.
What Happened?
The handover forms part of the government’s broader plan to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure food stability in the region.
A total of 2 805 bags of fertilizer have been approved for distribution, with 640 bags delivered. The distribution breakdown includes:
- Ward 8: 356 bags for 89 hectares (16 beneficiaries)
- Wards 6 & 7: 21 beneficiaries
- Wards 10 & 11: 153 bags for 51 hectares (19 beneficiaries)
- Ward 12: 60 bags for 20 hectares (1 youth beneficiary)
Additionally, early deliveries were made to:
- Ward 6: 168 bags for 56 hectares
- Ward 8: 30 bags for 10 hectares
Further distributions will continue ensuring all approved beneficiaries receive their inputs at appointed time.
Official Response
Mayor Siyabulela Zangqa commended the farmers for their commitment to improving local food systems and praised the partnership with the Department of Agriculture.
“This program is about empowering our farmers and strengthening food security in every household,” said Mayor Zangqa. “When we support local production, we build resilient communities that can sustain themselves.”
Community Impact
Local farmers expressed their gratitude for the intervention, noting that the support comes at a crucial time as the planting season approaches. Youth participation in Ward 12’s 20-hectare maize project outlines efforts to include young people in agricultural development.
1 544 households will receive fertilizer and LAN support, ensuring a wider reach for the food production drive.
Community leaders described program as a step toward reducing dependency on external food sources and promoting agricultural entrepreneurship among rural residents.
