LPIS: MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe Hands Over Cattle to Empower Farmers
To empower communal and smallholder farmers, MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) distributed 19 Nguni cattle bulls to 15 farming enterprises across Amathole, Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, and Joe Gqabi Districts. Notably, this initiative is part of the LPIS. Consequently, it aims to enhance these producers’ participation in the formal economy while fostering agricultural growth and sustainability.
Empowering Communal and Smallholder Farmers through LPIS
The LPIS plays a crucial role in improving the poor genetic quality of livestock owned by communal and smallholder farmers. Through the provision of superior cattle bulls, the program seeks to enhance the sustainability of farming enterprises. Furthermore, it actively promotes the inclusion of youth, women, people with disabilities, and military veterans in agriculture.
The Cattle Empowerment Initiative
Importantly, the 19 Nguni cattle bulls were sourced locally from the department’s Dohne research institute in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC). This surplus of bulls will strengthen the LPIS, providing smallholder farmers with improved breeding stock. Consequently, it will enhance livestock production and support agricultural development in communal areas.
The Importance of LPIS in Rural Development
Communal areas account for 40% of the livestock in the Eastern Cape, with many farmers selling animals through ceremonies, auctions, or abattoirs. To address their needs, the LPIS seeks to support smallholder farmers by improving livestock production. As a result, this initiative will increase their chances of participating more effectively in the formal economy.
Custom Feeding Centers: A Critical Component
In support of communal farming communities, the DRDAR provides ruminant feed to existing Custom Feeding Centers (CFCs) in the districts. These centers play a crucial role in nourishing the animals, which will eventually be bred using the high-quality cattle bulls provided through the LPIS.
A Step Towards Rural Development and Agricultural Reform
The LPIS serves as a transformative initiative with the potential to significantly improve the lives of communal and smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape. Specifically, by granting access to superior breeding stock, the program seeks to enhance their opportunities for active participation in the formal economy. Consequently, this effort will not only drive rural development but also support ongoing agricultural reform initiatives in the region.
The Future of Communal and Smallholder Farming
In conclusion, handing over 19 Nguni cattle bulls marks a vital step toward empowering communal and smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape. Furthermore, as the LPIS continues supporting these producers, livestock production will likely see significant improvements. This advancement will promote sustainability and encourage greater participation in the formal economy.
Source: Government of South Africa