Sustainable Farming Gains Momentum in Gauteng Through GDARD Oversight Visits

Gauteng advanced its agricultural goals yesterday when the GDARD MEC Vuyiswa Ramakgopa, joined by acting HOD Khululekile Mase, visited three COJ GDARD funded projects. The oversight formed part of a broader effort to improve sustainability, accountability and growth in the sector. The team met beneficiaries, reviewed progress and identified ways to strengthen food security, job creation and economic output.

The first stop was Kenokhatha Farm in Midrand. The 3.5 hectare operation produces spinach, baby marrow, cabbage, beans and peppers. They supply Moore Fruits and Nicole Fine Foods. GDARD support helped the farm acquire processing equipment and benefit from AgriBEE programmes. They built a new packhouse and purchased two trucks to improve distribution. These upgrades increased efficiency and strengthened their ability to meet demand.

The second visit focused on Tia Farming in Chartwell. The Tilapia project has grown through GDARD assistance. Support included 600 bags of fish feed weighing 25 kilograms each and a 36 kWh solar plant valued at about R500000. The solar system cut operational costs and improved reliability. The farm supplies Fruit and Veg with fresh Tilapia and continues to grow its market presence.

The final stop was Precious and Pearl Brands at the Riversands Innovation Hub. The women led enterprise produces Ghemere, a non alcoholic ginger beer with rising demand. GDARD funded an automatic filler and capper machine that improved production speed and packaging quality. The business employs permanent and seasonal staff and continues to expand.

The visits confirmed the positive impact of focused agricultural investment in Gauteng. Each project showed clear progress driven by infrastructure support, equipment upgrades and direct engagement from leadership. The outcomes highlighted the value of partnerships between government and producers. They also showed the potential for growth in both primary farming and agro processing.

GDARD remains committed to supporting farmers with resources that reduce risks, increase productivity and expand economic opportunities across the province.