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The Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) has begun a fact-finding mission this week, visiting hemp and cannabis projects across the province in a move aimed at strengthening the sector and supporting small-scale farmers.
According to the agency, the visits are focused on engaging directly with cultivators, identifying production bottlenecks, and exploring ways to grow the industry. The programme includes site inspections, meetings with farmers, and engagements with research institutions working on hemp varieties and cultivation methods.
One of the first stops is Rasimeni Farming in Frankfort, under the Amahlathi Local Municipality. The farm, managed by Manyano Rasimeni, is part of ECRDA’s support programme for field crops and animal fibre. It has already received hemp seedlings as part of the agency’s efforts to expand cannabis-related agriculture in the province.
The agency says it is also meeting funding partners and enterprise support stakeholders as part of the broader plan to improve farmer capacity and unlock economic opportunities in the sector.
While the initiative signals growing government interest in hemp and cannabis farming, key details remain unclear, including how many farmers will benefit, how funding will be distributed, and what long-term support will look like. This has not been confirmed.
For rural communities in the Eastern Cape, the stakes are high. Hemp and cannabis farming are increasingly seen as potential income streams in areas with limited job opportunities. If supported properly, the sector could create jobs, support smallholder farmers, and stimulate local economies.
However, farmers often face challenges such as lack of infrastructure, unclear regulations, and limited access to markets. The outcome of this fact-finding mission could determine whether these barriers are addressed or remain obstacles to growth.
Local impact is still developing, but communities in areas like Amahlathi and surrounding regions will be watching closely to see whether this initiative leads to real support on the ground.
The ECRDA has not yet announced timelines for feedback or next steps following the visits.
We will update this story as more information becomes available.
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