POLOKWANE – Application forms for the Limpopo Farmer Support Programme 2027/28 are not for sale, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has warned.

The department said scammers are selling forms to farmers and urged residents to be vigilant.

MEC Basikopo Makamu announced that the call for the Farmer Support Programme 2027/28 under the Producer Support Programme is now open. Application forms and key requirements are available free at www.ldard.gov.za. Forms must be submitted to the nearest Agro-Ecological Zone Office before the deadline.

Applications close on November 30 at 16:30 and no late applications will be accepted. Qualifying applicants include farmers, agro-processors, agricultural schools, ECD centres, military veterans, traditional leaders and unemployed agricultural graduates. This is relevant for Mankweng and Seshego, where many households farm small-scale and many University of Limpopo agricultural graduates remain unemployed.

For more information, farmers can call 015 294 3000 or email Farmer Assist at farmercare@agric.limpopo.gov.za and farmermcare@agric.limpopo.gov.za.

The warning comes as the department also issued a farmer alert for inclement weather conditions including the El Nino and severe thunderstorms across Limpopo, with farmers advised to prepare for heavy rain, strong winds, hail and lightning, particularly in central, south-central and south-western parts of the province. “Farmers are advised to move livestock to safe shelter, secure equipment and loose items, avoid outdoor farming activities during storms and stay updated with weather warnings,” Makamu said.

Visit the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development website for forms.