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In a drive to strengthen local agriculture and food security, the O.R. Tambo District Municipality, through its Ntinga O.R. Tambo Development Agency and the Eyoluntu Project, is hosting a Farmer’s Day aimed at empowering local producers. The event brings together farmers from Nyandeni, King Sabata Dalindyebo, Port St. Johns, Ingquza Hill, and Mhlontlo municipalities.
What Happened
The O.R. Tambo District’s Farmer’s Day celebrates the vision of Oliver Tambo: communities sustained by their own farmers. The event provides local farmers with essential agricultural inputs such as fertilizer and seeds to kick-start the planting season.
Moreover, it introduces them to direct market opportunities, including partnerships with Kei Fresh Produce Market, where farmers can sell without middlemen. This model aims to ensure better profits and build sustainable rural livelihoods.
“O.R. Tambo people must be fed by their own farmers,” organisers said, reinforcing the theme of self-reliance and local economic growth.
Farmers, youth, and women entrepreneurs will also learn about value-chain opportunities in agribusiness, from production to packaging and market delivery.
Official Response
Ntinga O.R. Tambo Development Agency officials noted that the initiative aligns with the District Municipality’s broader mission to reduce poverty through agricultural empowerment.
“We are planting more than crops — we’re planting opportunities,” said a representative from Ntinga O.R. Tambo Development Agency. “By linking farmers directly to markets, we ensure their hard work translates into real income.”
The Eyoluntu Project’s collaboration further strengthens the outreach, focusing on training and mentorship for small-scale and emerging farmers.
Community Impact
The Farmer’s Day is expected to unlock new possibilities for local economic growth. By reducing middlemen and providing access to structured markets, small farmers can grow sustainably while ensuring the district’s food supply remains local and affordable.
Youth and women in agriculture stand to benefit most, with new pathways into agribusiness and access to essential farming tools. The initiative encourages communities to view farming not only as survival but as a viable and profitable business.
