In an important push to combat poverty and promote local agriculture, the Umzimvubu Local Municipality has injected vital resources into two thriving maize projects in Ward 2. Mayor Cllr Zukiswa Ndevu recently led an oversight visit to the Sipolweni and Lubaleko villages, witnessing firsthand the impact of the municipality’s annual yellow maize initiative.
Amidst statistics highlighting the Eastern Cape’s crucial role in non-commercial maize production (producing 227,000 metric tons in 2022/2023, representing 48% of the sector), the municipality’s efforts are proving timely and impactful.
The initiative, designed to address soil erosion and unemployment, provided 13 local farmers with essential inputs. “Umzimvubu is known to face significant challenges with soil erosion,” explained Mr. Matola, representing the Local Economic Development (LED) office. “This project directly tackles that while empowering our farmers.”
This financial year, 15 hectares were ploughed in Sipolweni, part of a wider program across 28 wards. Sipolweni received 10 hectares, while Lubaleko benefited from 5. Notably, the projects empowered 15 farmers, including 7 women and 6 men. In Lubaleko, 4 beneficiaries, 3 women and 1 man, are managing the 5 hectares.
Mr. Matola commended the contractor for seamless collaboration. The projects are projected to yield 1000 to 1200 sacks of yellow maize, potentially generating R250,000 to R300,000 if weather conditions are favorable.
The program’s core objectives extend beyond mere production. The municipality aims to facilitate market access for farmers, providing training on sustainable farming practices and income generation. Letters of intent have already been secured with local retailers, Farmers Pride in Mount Frere and Kokstad Milling in Kokstad.
“We plan to store the harvest in silos, enabling farmers to capitalize on higher prices during winter,” Mr. Matola added.
Zukiswa Maqam, a cooperative member, expressed gratitude for the municipality’s support. “This assistance will help us put food on our tables,” she said.
The local traditional authority highlighted the community’s initial efforts, with 13 members contributing R800 each. They appealed for continued support, particularly fencing to safeguard their crops. The chief praised the LED office for their unwavering assistance.
Mayor Ndevu emphasized the municipality’s commitment to poverty alleviation. “Mealie meal is a staple food in our community,” she stated. “Maize is also vital for livestock feed.” She further acknowledged the importance of traditional leaders’ involvement, saying “We are happy that the local chief is part of the cooperative because in most cases you find that only the community members who take care of the soil.”
The Umzimvubu Local Municipality encourages residents in both KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni to engage with the LED office and the Department of Agriculture.
Farmers are specifically advised to seek assistance with fencing and related matters from the Department of Agriculture. The municipality remains steadfast in its mission to drive economic development and empower its farming communities.
