Eastern Cape Celebrates Top Extension Practitioners Driving Agricultural Success

The Eastern Cape’s agriculture sector celebrated excellence as MEC for Agriculture Nonceba Kontsiwe honoured the province’s best-performing Extension and Advisory Services (EAS) practitioners at a ceremony held at the Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development campus. The awards recognise the daily work of EAS practitioners, often called the “foot soldiers” of the Department, who provide technical advice and coordinate agricultural initiatives that have transformed farmers’ livelihoods.

The Recognition of Service Awards went to top performers in specialist and support roles. Mxolisi Mtyobeli from OR Tambo District was named Best Subject Matter Specialist. Thabang Mankinya from Alfred Nzo District received the Best Technical Support Award, while Best Extension Supervisor was awarded to Babalwa Makatisa, also from Alfred Nzo District.

Main awards recognised emerging talent and lifetime achievements. Samkelisiwe Zungu of Alfred Nzo District was named Most Improved Young Professional. Khuthala Xulubana from Chris Hani District received the Legend/Lifetime Achiever award. The Best Extension Practitioner Certificated went to Phooko, and Best Extension Practitioner Candidate was Msimelelo Mgolozelwa from Chris Hani District. Molosi from Amathole District was recognised as Best Extension Professional, while the overall winner was Msimelelo Mgolozelwa of Chris Hani District.

The Best Performing District award went to OR Tambo District, reflecting strong team performance and coordinated efforts across multiple agricultural initiatives.

The awards highlight the critical role EAS practitioners play in strengthening agricultural productivity, providing farmers with guidance on best practices, and supporting rural development across the province.