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On 14 October 2025, the Imvaba Cooperative Fund, administered by the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) for the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), handed over crucial farming support to Nqabarha Cooperative in Lubhelu Village, Willowvale. The initiative, led by MEC Nonkqubela Pieters, aims to strengthen rural farming enterprises and unlock the region’s agricultural potential.
What Happened
The Nqabarha Cooperative received a support package worth over R350 000. It included farming equipment, animal health products, feed supplements, and 20 cattle heifers. These resources will improve herd quality, increase milk and meat production, and grow the cooperative’s market reach. The co-op was founded by local farmers who decided to work together after ten years of individual farming. It now operates across 10 hectares with access to 100 hectares of communal land. The group manages 100 cattle and 60 goats, positioning itself for commercial expansion.
“Through the Imvaba Fund, DEDEAT is investing in the capacity of cooperatives to become sustainable, create jobs, and contribute to the inclusive growth of the Eastern Cape economy,” said MEC Pieters.
Official Response
MEC Pieters said the support shows government’s commitment to rural development and food security. She added that targeted funding helps smallholder farmers become more competitive. The ECDC reaffirmed its goal of promoting economic transformation. Officials said the Imvaba Fund builds sustainable agricultural enterprises that can supply both local and regional markets.
“We are proud to see cooperatives like Nqabarha taking the lead in rural development,” an ECDC representative noted.
Community Impact
The Nqabarha Cooperative employs 11 local residents, including women and youth. The new investment will protect these jobs and create more opportunities as production expands. Beyond income creation, the cooperative stands as a model for empowerment and collaboration in the rural economy. It also supports national goals of inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and skills development.
“This milestone shows that rural communities can thrive when given the right tools and support,” said a cooperative member during the event.
