It was all jubilation when Acting Director General of Rural Development and Land Reform, Ms Rendani Sadiki on behalf of Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane handed over farm implements worth more than R34 million to four farms in Sasolburg, Free State. 

Farmers couldn't hide their excitement as they receive the implements. They indicated that they will be able to start their farming in the coming planting season.   

"We are happy that the department heard our cry. We are excited that we will now start on time during the next planting season. We need to make sure that we secure food security in our country and this is the right step toward farmer supports. We are assuring government that we will work together and visit one another to compare and learn from each other, said one farmer.

Farming is both capital and labour intensive industry and farmers who lack access to both resources face inevitable failure. The Department always takes these factors into consideration and has budgeted R34 Million for the procurement and acquisition of requisite machinery, equipment, implements, rehabilitation of farms and infrastructure as well as technical training.  

Addressing the farmers the Acting DG Ms Rendani Sadiki conveyed a message from the Minster to the farmers. In the message the Minister said that "we need to quicken our steps in making sure that our land beneficiaries are provided with necessary assistance to better utilize their land. Today you are witnessing the beneficiaries of the first release of practical and tangible support by government as part of the stimulus support for our people. With these help of mechanization you are put at a position to function and benefit from the use of your land for the betterment of your lives", she quoted. 

She further said that government under the leadership of our Minister is saying we are going to walk this road with you and we will make sure that this land is exploited to produce that which will improve your lives and give a chance to also like the others to gain economic empowerment. As the department we are your partner in this process and from here we are going to do similar activations and supply of mechanizations and infrastructure for development and agricultural support with all our land reform beneficiaries.   We, at the same time expect you to demonstrate serious commitment and dedication by taking care of this assets and protecting with your lives if needs be. You have to take responsibility of what government has given to you, quoted the Acting DG.

The Acting DG urged the farmers to use the funds for the production and the success of the farm. 

"We do not want absent farmers; we want farmers who are present farmers. Who knows what is happening in their farms. You need to take care of the assets that we are handing over to you. Take care of them and use them properly", said the Acting DG.

"Support the Department provides to ensure farmers' operations aren't hampered by lack of resources and to ensure they run viable businesses and the support is being advanced to the four projects, concluded the Acting DG..

Service provider appointed by the department committed that over and above the purchasing of the tractor from them, they will also train the farmers on how to use the machinery and also ensure that services and maintenance plan for the implements is adhered to.

The hand-over is part of the economic stimulus package announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa aimed at boosting recovery plan to ensure food security, create jobs and most of all uplift the emerging farmers' contribution to production as a result increasing food security and alleviation of poverty.

The department of rural development and land reform has set aside R400 million toward stimulus package for farmers across country.

The Department has facilitated the procurement and acquisition of mechanization, equipments and implements from to the tune of more than R34 million for the four projects.

The targeted beneficiaries for the post settlement support initiative are Georgina from Mangaung, Landskroon from Lejweleputswa, Berlyn from Lejweleputswa and Olivine Fezile Dabi.

The hand-over included verifying that all items are indeed available as per the list from all the four projects; and that all the items are in good condition and complete the Department's certificate of declaration of goods & services, i.e. they are in good condition. Also tacking all implements accordingly and install trackers to the tractors; and Issuing of an invoice (only on items verified) which should be accompanied by all other documents referred above to process payment.

Issued by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform Enquiries: Ms Phuti Mabelebele –Acting Chief Director: Strategic Communications( Spokesperson) | Tel: +27 12 312 8909 | Cell: 076 402 7521| Phuti.Mabelebele@drdlr.gov.za I www.drdlr.gov.za