MEC Elzabe Rockman Engages Commonage Farmers in Jacobsdal to Strengthen Agricultural Development

The Free State MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Elzabe Rockman, has reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting commonage farmers through direct engagement and collaboration with local stakeholders. During a meeting held at the Jacobsdal Recreation Centre in the Xhariep District, farmers were given the opportunity to raise their concerns and discuss challenges affecting their agricultural activities. The gathering brought together municipal leaders, government departments and industry stakeholders to identify practical solutions that will improve farming conditions and strengthen rural livelihoods. The meeting highlighted the importance of cooperation between different levels of government in addressing issues that impact agricultural productivity. It also demonstrated a shared commitment to ensuring that commonage farmers receive the support they need to grow their businesses and contribute to the local economy.

The event was officially opened by the Mayor, Councillor Andrew Visagie, who welcomed farmers and all stakeholders in attendance. He encouraged participants to openly discuss the challenges they face and assured them that their concerns would receive the attention they deserve. Mayor Visagie emphasized the importance of including the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development in the discussions, acknowledging that access to the department has long been a priority for many commonage farmers. By bringing all relevant stakeholders together, the municipality created a platform for constructive dialogue and problem solving. The mayor’s remarks reflected the municipality’s commitment to working closely with provincial and national departments to improve opportunities for farmers in the district.

During the meeting, Letsemeng Acting Municipal Manager Mr. Mbulelo Jafta presented the municipality’s plans to strengthen agriculture within the Xhariep District. He explained that agriculture has been identified as a key priority for the district because of its potential to create jobs, improve food production and stimulate economic growth. Jafta noted that previous engagements between commonage farmers and the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs in the district had identified several pressing issues requiring urgent attention. Among the most significant concerns raised were lease agreements, access to agricultural land and reliable water supplies. To provide immediate relief, he announced that the mayor had committed to a one-year lease payment exemption for all commonage farmers, a decision expected to reduce financial pressure on farming operations while longer-term solutions are developed.

Addressing the gathering, MEC Elzabe Rockman praised the municipality for its collaborative approach and the progress already made in supporting commonage farmers. She commended local leaders for working closely with her department to ensure that farmers’ needs remain a priority. Rockman expressed her satisfaction with the management of the Jacobsdal commonage, describing it as a well-organized operation with effective systems and sound leadership. She noted that the continued success of the commonage demonstrated what can be achieved when farmers, municipalities and government departments work together toward common goals. Her remarks encouraged farmers to continue building strong management structures that will support sustainable agricultural development for years to come.

The meeting also featured a series of informative presentations from various government departments and partner organizations that addressed issues affecting the agricultural sector. Veterinary Services provided farmers with important updates on Foot-and-Mouth Disease, emphasizing the importance of disease prevention, monitoring and compliance with animal health regulations. Representatives from the South African Police Service discussed stock theft, offering guidance on crime prevention strategies and encouraging closer cooperation between farmers and law enforcement agencies. Orange Riet Water addressed water-related matters, highlighting the importance of responsible water management and reliable supply for agricultural production. Officials from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development also outlined available opportunities for improving access to agricultural land, giving farmers valuable information on processes and support available through the department.

The engagement in Jacobsdal demonstrated the value of open communication between government, municipalities and farming communities. By bringing together decision makers and service providers in one forum, farmers were able to receive direct responses to their concerns while gaining access to important information and support services. Discussions around land access, water availability, lease agreements, animal health and stock theft reflected the broad range of issues that influence the success of commonage farming. The commitment to a one-year lease payment exemption provides immediate assistance while reinforcing the municipality’s willingness to invest in the future of local agriculture. These practical interventions have the potential to improve farming conditions and strengthen confidence among commonage farmers across the district.

The meeting between MEC Elzabe Rockman and commonage farmers represents another important step toward building a stronger and more sustainable agricultural sector in the Free State. Through collaboration between provincial government, local municipalities and national departments, farmers are receiving the support needed to overcome challenges and expand their agricultural activities. The positive feedback from MEC Rockman regarding the management of the Jacobsdal commonage serves as recognition of the hard work being done by local farmers and community leaders. Continued engagement, practical support and coordinated planning will remain essential as the province works to improve rural development and food production. By prioritizing agriculture and maintaining open dialogue with farming communities, the Free State is laying the foundation for long-term agricultural growth, stronger rural economies and more resilient commonage farming systems.