Limpopo Premier launches summer planting season

LIMPOPO – The Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba delivered the keynote address at the launch of the Summer Planting Season at the Matangari Drop-in Centre near Makonde on Friday.

She spoke about the importance of supporting small-scale farmers as part of Provincial Government’s efforts to promote agricultural development and food security in the region.

Joined by the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, Thulamela Mayor Athongozwidivha Rambuda, and Thovhele Kennedy Tshivhase, the premier said that food security starts at home.

“Backyard farming, which is common in Limpopo’s subsistence farming communities, plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity. By using practices such as crop rotation, composting, and water-saving irrigation, families can sustainably increase productivity on small plots.

“Backyard farming ensures a consistent supply of fresh, nutritious food, reduces vulnerability to market price fluctuations, and empowers communities to become self-sufficient. It fosters a sense of ownership and resilience, especially in rural areas with limited access to large-scale farming infrastructure,” Ramathuba said.

She praised Vhembe’s thriving backyard farming practices and suggested integrating modern agricultural technologies such as vertical gardens, hydroponics and aquaponics to enhance yields, even in small spaces.

While subsistence farming remains vital, Ramathuba stressed the need to elevate small-scale farmers to commercial production.

She acknowledged the challenges small-scale farmers face, such as limited access to markets, financing, and modern technologies, and spoke of government’s efforts to overcome these barriers.

Tshivhase expressed support for government’s initiatives, stating that helping small-scale farmers will fight poverty and unemployment in rural communities.