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The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture launched its R100 million summer cropping programme in Bhaziya village, near Mthatha, on 30 October 2025.
Held during World Food Security Month, the event was led by MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe, who used the platform to spotlight youth participation and private sector partnerships in the province’s push for food security and poverty eradication.
What Happened
MEC Kontsiwe launched the 2025/26 provincial cropping season with a R100 million budget and a target of 23,000 hectares. This follows the successful 2024/25 season, which yielded over 112,920 tons of maize from 22,584 hectares.
Youth-led enterprise Jay Jay Farming in Mputi village was chosen as a showcase site for the programme’s potential. The farm produces maize, soya beans, and vegetables, employing 12 full-time staff and up to 50 seasonal workers.
“We are here to support young farmers and fight poverty,” said MEC Kontsiwe. “Agriculture is the future of this province.”
Official Response
The department confirmed:
- 90% of this season’s crops will be grains.
- Partnerships with Land Bank, Ukhanyo Development Farmer, and Potato SA are in place.
- Jay Jay Farming will plant:
- 500 ha maize (DoA-supported)
- 130 ha soya (Land Bank/UDF-supported)
- 2 ha potatoes (DoA + Potato SA)
Kontsiwe praised the farm’s proactive approach to mentorship and external funding.
Community Impact
Jay Jay Farming’s co-owner, Sipho Joyi, highlighted the economic ripple effect of their operations:
“We’ve faced tough times, but today we’re feeding our families and hiring from our community.”
The department says exposing farmers to the entire value chain is key to commercialisation and long-term food security in the Eastern Cape.
Key Facts
- R100 million budget
- 23,000 hectares planned
- Youth-led farms spotlighted
- 60+ jobs created by Jay Jay Farming
- Programme launched in Bhaziya, Mthatha
