DARDLEA Hosts Commodity Workshop to Boost Farmer Productivity in Steynsdorp

The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) recently hosted a commodity workshop at the Steynsdorp Community Hall near Mooiplaas in the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. The event brought together local farmers, agribusinesses, and agricultural partners to strengthen agricultural productivity through knowledge sharing, technology demonstrations, and service awareness.

The workshop formed part of DARDLEA’s Structured Agricultural Training program, which aims to build farmers’ technical capacity and ensure compliance with agricultural standards. Sessions focused on regulations governing agricultural production, food safety, and quality assurance. Farmers were trained on how to meet market requirements while protecting consumer health.

Practical demonstrations were a key feature of the workshop. Experts guided participants on soil sampling techniques and laboratory analysis. Farmers learned how soil tests can reveal nutrient deficiencies and guide efficient fertilizer use. This approach is expected to reduce production costs and improve crop yields.

Presenters covered important topics, including the Agricultural Standards Act and Sweet Potato Cultivars. Discussions highlighted how following national standards improves market access and export opportunities. The session on sweet potato varieties focused on selecting cultivars suited to local climate conditions and resistant to common pests and diseases.

Lake Agriculture contributed by showcasing its services and sweet potato cultivars. Their demonstration introduced farmers to improved planting materials and technologies designed to increase productivity. Emphasis was placed on the benefits of using high-quality seed stock and applying good agricultural practices consistently.

Farmers attending the workshop expressed gratitude for the practical insights and opportunity to engage with experts. Many noted that the knowledge gained would help them improve their operations, adopt sustainable practices, and increase profitability. Through workshops like this, DARDLEA continues to equip farmers with the skills, tools, and networks necessary to enhance agricultural output and strengthen long-term food security in Mpumalanga.