The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) in partnership with Agricultural Research Council (ARC) and Deciduous Fruit Development Chamber of South Africa (DFDC), had seen a need of bringing together farmers who are specializing with apple production and those who are interested in the commodity to come and learn from other stakeholders. The Ngisana Apple Project beneficiaries with a successful apple project within the Gert Sibande District shared their journey to success.
The gathering in a form of a farmer’s day was held at Ngisana Apple Project whereby the project leader Mr. S Nkosi was afforded an opportunity to give summary on their journey to a successful project. The beneficiaries thanked tDARDLAE for the support they have received and the continuous extension and advisory services they are receiving. Addressing the number of farmers in attendance Mr. S Nkosi said, as he was pointing at the project, “The project is like this, because of the Department of Agriculture and the passion and commitment of the beneficiaries, indeed Ngisana beneficiaries are an asset in this project.”
As he continued sharing their journey to success he revealed that the department has supported them with the fencing of 11kilometre on the project, received 25 heifers and 1 bull under the MasibuyeleEsibayeni Programme, appointment of an apple mentor Dr Job Mthombeni, who also owns a successful apple project in the Gert Sibande District. They are not only focusing on apple production, they also planted dry beans, soya beans and maize.
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), who was duly represented, presented on risks and the spread of fruit fly in South Africa. They advised on food import and export standards. The attendees and the project beneficiaries were provided with information on practical application of fruit regulations for the national and local market and Food Safety and Quality Assurance.
All the information shared in the gathering will not only benefit the apple farmers but also those who have interest in this commodity. “If you are a farmer, you don’t know what is Christmas all about; you don’t know what a weekend is all about. A farmer only remembers to buy pesticides, chemicals, fertilizers and tools needed on his farm. I hope this will serve as motivation to other farmers concluded Mr. George Xaba: District Director whilst addressing the farmers who attended the function.