What is happening?
The Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture has launched a R19.5 million irrigation scheme revival programme aimed at revitalising agriculture, fighting poverty, and creating jobs.
The official launch was held on 27 January 2026 at the Zanyokhwe Irrigation Scheme in Keiskammahoek. MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe announced that 10 000 hectares of irrigation schemes will be revived over the next five years across multiple districts.
Why it matters to you
This programme is designed to:
- Increase local food production
- Support small-scale and commercial farmers
- Create job opportunities in rural areas
- Provide access to new farming equipment and market support
- Strengthen public-private partnerships for rural economic growth
Farmers in Amathole, Chris Hani, and OR Tambo stand to benefit directly from this investment.
What you need to know
Who qualifies
Farmers involved in existing or dormant irrigation schemes in the following districts:
- Amathole
- Chris Hani
- OR Tambo
Investment by district
| District | Hectares Developed | Investment Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Amathole | 613 ha | R5 million |
| Chris Hani | 700 ha | R6 million |
| OR Tambo | 215 ha | R3.5 million |
| Total | 1 528 ha | R14.5 million |
An additional R5 million has been allocated to the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA) to assist with:
- Commercialisation of production
- Market access
- New technologies
- Technical support
- Production finance
What you should do next
If you are a farmer in the Eastern Cape and part of an irrigation scheme:
- Contact your local agricultural office to find out if your scheme is included
- Reach out to ECRDA for commercial support and training
- Explore public-private partnerships through local agribusiness forums
- Start preparing land and production plans for the coming season
Where to get help / official sources
For more information, contact the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture:
- Mr Atule Joka: 071 688 4231
- Mr Thozi Manyisana: 063 183 9512
