MEC Nakedi Kekana Hands Over Farming Equipment to Young Female Farmer in Thabazimbi

MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, together with Thabazimbi Mayor Cllr Tumisang Pilane, handed over a tractor and planter to young female farmer Lindiwe Motlakala in Thabazimbi, Waterberg District. Motlakala, who operates under Diwe Farm, also received a boom sprayer from her mentor.

The handover formed part of government’s broader initiative to empower and capacitate small-scale farmers to transition into commercial operations. The support aims to boost food production, create jobs, and strengthen rural economies in Limpopo.

Diwe Farm, established in 2019, has grown steadily over the years. It began on a 7.5-hectare lease, expanded to 15 hectares, then to 38 hectares, and now covers 100 hectares. The farm practices precision farming and focuses mainly on the production of vegetables and grains.

Since its inception, Diwe Farm has received continuous support from the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Assistance has included fertilisers, seeds, technical advice, and extension services. This support has helped improve yields and enhance the farm’s sustainability.

The project is one of ten farming enterprises identified for commercialisation within the Waterberg District. Similar projects are being implemented across other districts in Limpopo to help emerging farmers scale up production and access larger markets.

Speaking at the handover, MEC Kekana commended Motlakala for her dedication and commitment to farming. She expressed confidence that the new equipment will enable Diwe Farm to increase productivity and profitability. Kekana also highlighted the importance of mechanisation in sustaining agricultural projects and addressing unemployment, poverty, and inequality, which are key departmental priorities.

The MEC praised the contribution made by Motlakala’s mentor, who donated the boom sprayer, and called it a model example of effective public-private collaboration. She encouraged more experienced farmers and private sector partners to support young and emerging farmers.

Kekana concluded by announcing the official Call for Farmer Support, urging farmers across the province to apply for available assistance. She reaffirmed the department’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for farmers to thrive and contribute to food security and economic growth.

The handover at Diwe Farm marked a milestone in government’s ongoing drive to nurture young agricultural entrepreneurs, particularly women, and ensure that small-scale producers evolve into sustainable commercial farmers.