Eastern Cape Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe has officially handed over two key projects to the Chamama Forest community in Cofimvaba: a spring water project and a fully equipped shearing shed.
The initiatives bring lasting relief to households and farmers, making it easier to access clean water and improve wool production. Here’s how community members can benefit.
How to Access the New Spring Water Project
Who benefits? 1,891 households across 10 villages now have closer access to water, including families, elderly residents, and people living with disabilities.
AdvertisementWhere are the taps? 234 taps were installed in easy-to-reach areas within villages.
How was it funded? The Department of Agriculture invested R521,000 into the project, also creating 29 jobs for local youth trained in maintaining the infrastructure.
What can the water be used for? Drinking, cooking, and irrigating home gardens.
How to Use the New Shearing Shed
Who owns it? A 53-member association with strong participation from women farmers.
What does it do? It provides proper facilities for shearing sheep, improving the quality of wool.
How much was invested? R1.6 million was spent on the shed’s construction and equipment.
Why is it important? Farmers no longer struggle with makeshift shearing; wool quality has improved, boosting incomes. In 2024, they sheared 6,794 sheep and sold 78 bales through BKB, generating R179,400.
Bigger Picture
The projects are part of a wider government programme to expand clean water access, youth job creation, and rural economic development. MEC Kontsiwe urged the community to protect these investments for future generations.
