MEC Rockman Engages Farmers in Ventersburg to Address Key Agricultural Challenges

The final part of yesterday’s programme took place at Ventersburg Mamahabane Library, where MEC Rockman engaged directly with local farmers to understand their concerns and challenges.

Local Councillor Cllr. Mphore Pelokgolo welcomed the MEC, her team, and the farmers, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government and the farming community. Mr Mothwa, acting Director for Agriculture and Rural Development in the Lejweleputswa district, outlined the purpose of the day, emphasizing the need for open dialogue to improve agricultural support and service delivery.

During the engagement, farmers raised several pressing issues. They highlighted mismanagement of commonages, lack of water, limited access to land, challenges in accessing markets, and difficulties in obtaining production inputs. These challenges, they said, hinder productivity and growth for smallholder farmers in the region.

In response, MEC Rockman stressed the value of such engagements, noting that direct communication with farmers allows government to better understand day-to-day challenges. She acknowledged the recurring issues with commonages, stating that municipalities often lack the capacity to resolve these problems alone. She emphasized the need for collaboration with commonage committees and local stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.

“I’m happy to hear that in this area, you are well structured and have all commodities,” MEC Rockman said, praising the organisation and preparedness of the local farming community. She reiterated the government’s commitment to working alongside farmers to improve management systems, access to resources, and overall agricultural productivity.

The engagement reflects a broader strategy by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to strengthen farmer support, enhance local agricultural governance, and promote sustainable rural development. By listening to farmers and addressing their concerns, the government aims to ensure that agricultural programmes are more effective and responsive to local needs.

This initiative signals the importance of continuous dialogue between government and farmers, ensuring that issues such as water scarcity, land access, and market opportunities are addressed collaboratively for the growth and sustainability of agriculture in Ventersburg and the wider Lejweleputswa district.