Government Farmer Funding Details

Farming is a unique occupation with its own challenges. The high cost of basic farming equipment, technology, and land and changing weather conditions are just a few challenges that can significantly impact a farm’s profitability.

That’s why the South African government provide farmers with many different grants, subsidies, and contributions. Below is the number of government funding opportunities for farmers. 

1. Department of Agriculture

Government identifies suitable land for farming and then advertises the fact that land is available on different media platforms.

People interested in farming then apply and their applications are assessed. Those who meet the criteria are shortlisted and interviewed.

If successful, their applications are submitted to the National Land Acquisition and Allocation Control Committee for final approval. Successful applicants sign lease agreements before they work the land and benefit from other support programmes.

Food Security  - Provides vegetable packs (5 different seeds, LAN, fertilizer), to individual households and production inputs to established groups 

CASP - Provides post-settlement support to the targeted land reform beneficiaries & to other producers who have acquired land through private means & are, for example, engaged in value-adding enterprises domestically or involved in export 

MAFISA - Short Term Agric Production Loans Purchase of production inputs To be repaid within 12 months except for perennial crops, which might take a maximum of 24 months

Equipment - Purchase of loose tools, small irrigation pumps & equipment, sprayers, e.t.c. To be repaid within 12 months. 

Livestock - Purchase of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs e.t.c. To be repaid within 60 months. 

Conditions - Max. of R100 000 per individual applicant Interest rate: 8 % per annum (compounded) Money paid to suppliers Savings mobilisation

For enquiries, farmers should contact the following people at the department’s provincial offices:

Free State: Percy Raseobi at 051 400 4277.

Northern Cape: Moeketsi Ntsane at 053 830 4001.

North West: Frank Lesenyeho at 018 388 7000.

Eastern Cape: Thabile Mehlomakhulu at 043 700 7000 .

KwaZulu-Natal: Sipho Dlamini at 033 355 4363.

Mpumalanga: Zithini Dlamini at 013 754 8000.

Limpopo: Nicholas Magada at 015 230 5000.

Gauteng: Tshifhiwa Tshikhudo at 012 337 3707.

Western Cape: Vuyani Nkasayiat 021 409 0300.

For more information, go to www.drdlr.gov.za or Government

2. IDC Agro-processing and Agriculture Strategic Business Unit

One of the objectives of the Agro-processing and Agriculture Strategic Business Unit (SBU) is to invest in the development of projects and businesses that either create new or expand local manufacturing capacity – which often results in the creation of new jobs as well as replacing imports, facilitating increased exports, and enhancing competitiveness. This is done by, amongst other things, reducing production costs by introducing new technologies, increasing efficiencies,  and promoting a value chain approach.

The aim is to develop a competitive industry in the food, beverage, forestry, and agro-derivative industries that utilise and develop local and regional resources to supply domestic demand and increase international trade participation.

This is achieved by expanding production capacity and promoting value-adding expansionary agro-processing activities in a manner that fosters economic inclusivity. The SBU also provides funding to agro-processors that want to increase their procurement levels from historically disadvantaged farmers or farming communities.

Through various funding and project development activities, we aim to have the following impact on the South African economy:

• Promote, and expand industries, creating and preserving jobs and driving sustainable economic growth.
• Enable local industries to ensure better utilisation of resources and infrastructure.
• Improve operating margins and improve competitiveness.
• Reduce imports and increase exports in the sector.
• Achieve development goals of BEE and broad-based inclusivity, youth, and women ownership in businesses.

The Agro-Processing And Agriculture business unit supports a wide range of economically viable activities in agro-processing (food and non-food) sectors.

WHAT WE FUND

The IDC Agro-processing and Agriculture Strategic Business Unit (SBU) funds processing in the following sub-sectors of the agriculture value chain:

• Horticulture including fruit, vegetables, nuts, tea and coffee
• Field Crops Processing
• Animal Protein, including red/white meat, aquaculture, poultry etc.
• Forestry

The SBU can also consider backward integration into primary agriculture, where this forms part of the business and adds to the business’s competitiveness.

The SBU can also consider projects and transactions where land has been transferred back to communities and other broad-based groups to set up viable projects on such land.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

3. Umsobomvu Youth Fund (UYF)

Grants offered to youth projects only (18-35yrs). Provides funds for production inputs only. Does not fund Poultry Production. 

Micro loans: R1000-100 000

Offered to black South African males (18-35 yrs) and women (of any age) who are, or plan to be very involved in business

National Office

Tel: 011 651 7000

Fax: 011 805 9709

Free State Office

Tel: 051 400 8301

Fax: 086 603 0500

www.youthportal.org.za

4. National Development Agency (NDA)

Funds existing and new projects.
2 types of funding
1. request for proposals for new projects advertised in newspapers.
2. programme formulation- for existing projects.

National Office

Tel: 011 718 5500

Fax: 011 403 2514

Free State Office

Tel: 051 430 2024

Fax: 051 403 2024

www.nda.org.za

5. Free State Development Corporation (FDC)

Provides loans to qualifying entrepreneurs for start-up capital, expansion capital and bridging finance.

Micro Loans Loans granted are a minimum of R50 000 & may not exceed R20 000. 

Interest charged will be Prime Bank Rate (PBR) less 3.5%. 

The repayment period may not exceed 36 months

Support on agro-processing only.

FDC provides equity in businesses that lack collateral but

have the potential for growth and profitability. 

Free State Office

Tel: 051 448 6772

www.fdc.co.za

6. Khula Enterprise Finance Ltd.

Land Reform Empowerment Facility (LREF) Khula LREF is a programme funded by the department of Land Affairs & the European Union, administered by Khula Enterprise Finance Ltd. 

LREF Mortgage Loan Facility 

This facility helps entrepreneurs to acquire ownership of agricultural land under the following conditions: Loan Size: limited to R600 000 per individual from previously disadvantaged background Loan Redemption Period: up to 20 years, depending on the repayment ability of the project. 

LREF Equity Share Scheme 

The scheme is where by both the land reform beneficiaries & private sector partners purchase equity in a land-based enterprise under the following conditions: Loan Size: limited to R400 000 per individual from a previously disadvantaged background. 

Loan Redemption Period: up to 20 years, depending on the repayment ability of the project 

Khula Indemnity Scheme

Provides financial assistance to people who wish to start or expand small to medium sized businesses but do not have security to support facilities provided by financial intermediaries. 

Khula-Start Programme 

Gives loans to women groups in rural areas. Individuals select themselves into groups of 3-10 members & need to meet the criteria set for group participation. Loans are disbursed on an incremental basis from R300- R3500 per member. The group decides based on activity of individual businesses how much each member gets & will subsequently stand surety for the full amount owed by the group as a whole. 

Free State Office

Tel: 051 430 2778/3203

Fax: 051 430 0949

Toll Free: 0800118815

www.khula.org.za

7. Department of Trade and Industry

Individual Credit Guarantee Scheme. 

Enables the entrepreneur to access funding from a participating bank or other financial institutions. The scheme enables the entrepreneur to access funding for purposes of establishing, expanding, or purchasing a business. Facilities secured under this scheme include; term loans, bank overdraft, revolving credit, installment sale, bank guarantees as well as construction performance guarantee. 

Emerging Entrepreneur Scheme-Credit Guarantee 

Provides up to R100 000 with the fee payable at 4% p.a in advance. The duration is 24 months initially but can be extended three times for periods of 12 months each time. The condition is mentorship of the loan.

National Office

Tel: 086 184 3384

Fax: 086 184 3888

www.thedti.gov.za

8. SEDA

Provides information to small enterprises and prospective entrepreneurs that will help and encourage them to start and build sustainable businesses.

National Office

Tel: 012 441 1000

 086 010 3703

Free State Office

Tel: 051 411 38201

 051 444 4267

Fax: 051 444 4235

www.seda.org.za

10. National Empowerment Fund

The fund is designed to promote the creation of new businesses & the provision of expansion capital to early stage businesses. It aims to cultivate the culture of entrepreneurship by offering debt, quasi-equity & equity finance up to R20 million comprising: 

- start-up finance for new businesses

 - expansion capital for existing small businesses 

- financing of preferential procurement contracts 

- financing of rural & community development projects 

- financing of franchised projects

National Office Tel: 011 305 8000 Fax: 011 305 8001 www.nefcorp.co.za

AVBOB YES Graduate Programme 2021

Description:  Apply now for the AVBOB YES Graduate Programme 2021. 

AVBOB, in partnership with YES initiative, is hosting a YES Graduate Programme for youth that has achieved excellent results. 

If you understand Sales process and dynamics, and have interest for financial intermediary practice, you are encouraged to take up this opportunity.

Closing Date: 13/04/2021

Location: Soweto

The criteria is as follows:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be under the age of 35
• Must be unemployed
• Sales and Target driven

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE SHOULD HAVE:

• Achieved a three year qualification with a recognised public institution, or Tvet College.
• RE 5 and FAIS recognised qualification will be an advantage.
• High proficiency in English (Ability to speak and understand).
• Fluency of an African languages will be an advantage.
• Mathematics / Accounting (School Subject).
• Computer skills is a MUST (must be able to work on a PC).
• Data capturing
• Report writing
• Client Services or Customer Care Course (Advantage).

Requirements

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THE POSITION:

• Customer service or sales experience will be an advantage.
• Call Centre experience will be an advantage.
• Sound knowledge of sales techniques.
• Knowledge of telephone etiquette.
• Advanced computer literacy in e-mail and MS Office & Windows will be an advantage.

COMPETENCIES:

• Planning.
• Organising.
• Written communication.
• Commercial awareness.
• Innovating.
• Problem solving and analysis.
• Persuasiveness.
• Oral communication.
• Interpersonal sensitivity.
• Flexibility.
• Resilience.
• Accuracy.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

SACA Human Resources Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for SACA Human Resources Internship Programme 2021.

The SACAA is taking applications for the 12 months Internship Program in the Human Resource Division.

Closing Date: 23 April 2021

Location: Midrand, Gauteng, South Africa

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Degree in Human Resources or a relevant and equivalent qualification.

Specification

• Graduates with Human Resource qualifications are invited to apply for the 12 months Internship Programme. 
• The Successful Intern will be afforded an opportunity to gain work experience within the Human Resources Division.
• The appointed Intern will receive a monthly stipend and they are required to arrange their own accommodation and transportation to work.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY 

The SACAA will process applications as soon as possible. If you have not heard from us within 90 days after the advert closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Preference will be given to Employment Equity candidates in line with Employment Equity Targets.

Content + Cloud Finance Internship Programme 2021

 Description: Apply now for the Content + Cloud Finance Internship Programme 2021.

This role supports the finance functions for the Content + Cloud Group (SA & UK).

At Content+Cloud we look for a particular kind of person. Someone who likes nothing better than helping others to achieve their goals. Someone who is driven by a desire to go the extra mile for our clients, focusing on the little things that make a big difference. Someone who loves technology, not for its own sake, but for what it can deliver – in terms of organisation.

This is the real Content+Cloud difference: the mindset of our people.

We see every client challenge as an opportunity for fresh thinking, and every client journey as an adventure

Location: Cape Town

Closing Date: Friday, April 30, 2021

Job Responsibilities

• Assist with management accounts for various entities within the group
• Assist with month- and year-end procedures (e.g., prepayments, accruals)
• Assist with various monthly / quarterly reporting (e.g., Bank/ECI/DTI/BBBEE)
• Assist with VAT calculations and submissions
• Assist with commission calculations
• Assist with Audit request
• Day to Day banking and payments
• Processing all data on accounting system
• Processing bank reconciliation
• Preparation of weekly / monthly supplier pay run
• Assist with fixed asset register (additions / depreciation /disposal)
• Adhoc duties upon request

Location and Environment

This role will be based out of our Cape Town offices in South Africa, however you will work amongst a team split across our UK offices.

Required Skills and Capabilities

• Relevant NQF Level 6 and above
• Understanding of Accounting principles and procedures
• Microsoft Excel

Advantageous

• Basic Tax knowledge
• Exposure to project accounting
• Exposure to commission calculation
• Microsoft Excel Advanced (pivot / vlookup / hlookup etc.)

Package

• Basic stipend offered
• Role based out of our Cape Town offices (currently working remotely)
• 15 days’ annual leave (pro-rata)
• Free breakfast daily, lunches paid for on Friday (and a whole array of other benefits!)

Good luck and please bear in mind we receive a very high number of applications; we will endeavour to get back to all applicants, however, we thank you for understanding this is not always possible for unsuccessful applicants.

CLICK HERE TO PPLY

Content+Cloud is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent regardless of race, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or criminal history. 

As part of our compliance requirements, we do undertake background checks which, dependent on levels of security required for the role or client assignment, may include a criminal record check. Please do let us know if you would like more details on the level of checks for the specific role you are applying to.

4 X SACAA Records Management Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the 4 X SACAA Records Management Internship Programme 2021.

The SACAA is taking applications for the 12 months Internship Program in Records Management. Graduates with Records Management or Administration qualifications are invited to apply.

Location: Midrand

Closing Date: 23 April 2021

Specification

• Graduates with Records Management or Information Science or Knowledge Management or Administration qualifications are invited to apply for the 12 months Internship Programme.
• Successful Interns will be afforded an opportunity to gain work experience in Records Management.
• The Successful Interns will receive a monthly stipend and they are required to arrange their own accommodation and transportation to work.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

The SACAA will process applications as soon as possible. If you have not heard from us within 90 days after the advert closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Preference will be given to Employment Equity candidates in line with Employment Equity Targets.

Moore Retirement Fund Clerk Opportunity 2021

 Description: Apply now for the Moore Retirement Fund Clerk Opportunity 2021.

An opportunity exists for an individual at one of the world’s leading accounting and audit firms.  The position requires the successful candidate to work on the audit of Retirement Funds.  

We are interested in confident, well rounded individuals with a passion for team work and excellence.

The diverse and complex level of work to which you will be exposed at Moore, will help you to realise your potential, showcase your talents and identify your career path. 

Moore offers competitive remuneration and once you've joined Moore, we do everything we can to ensure that your time with us is happy and productive.

Location: Parktown

Requirements

Applicants should:

• Be a South African citizen
• BCom Accounting Degree completed Non-negotiable
• High stress threshold, effective interpersonal skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage deadlines and prioritize duties
• Effective communication
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• We value positive, optimistic, driven and well-presented individuals

CLICK HERE TO APPLY 

Join Moore and you will discover an ambitious firm with strong leadership and a shared direction. We provide exceptional service to our clients, stimulating work and excellent development for our people. Our working culture is inclusive, collaborative and supportive. We want to allow our employees to reach their full potential.

Nxatel Digital Marketing Internship Programme 2021

 Description: Apply now for the Nxatel Digital Marketing Internship Programme 2021.

 Looking for an exciting internship with a local tech company?

The Nxatel marketing team is seeking an enthusiastic marketing intern to assist with day-to-day activities in our department.

As a marketing intern, you will report to the Marketing Communications Manager and collaborate with our team on all stages of marketing campaigns.

The ideal candidate will either be enrolled full-time in a major university and studying marketing or communications, or have a Bachelor’s degree in related studies.

Contract length: 12 months

Location: Pretoria

Closing Date: 26 April 2021

Salary: R4,500.00 - R6,000.00 per month

Education: Revelevant Diploma

Responsibilities and Duties

• Support the marketing communications team with daily tasks and projects.
• Assist in marketing and advertising promotional activities (potential for social media, email marketing, web-based content, blogging, and more).
• Assist with the creation and editing of engaging content for various communications campaigns.
• Assist with tracking and measuring campaign results.
• Monitor social channels and help respond to questions and comments.
• Aid with administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications and Skills

• Passionate and interested in marketing with the desire to create a career in the field.
• Familiar with social media and content creation.
• A wicked-good writer and editor.
• Excited to take initiative, multi-task, wear a few hats, and drive results.
• Able to take direction and absorb information quickly.
• Hardworking, dedicated, and take pride in your work.
• Passionate and interested in marketing with the desire to create a career in the field.
• Familiar with social media and content creation.
• A wicked-good writer and editor.
• Excited to take initiative, multi-task, wear a few hats, and drive results.
• Able to take direction and absorb information quickly.
• Hardworking, dedicated, and take pride in your work.

Specification

• A South African aged between 18-35
• Completed degree/diploma in Marketing obtained from a reputable university
• No experience required, therefore unemployed candidates will be given preference
• Management reserves the right to use additional or relevant information as criteria for short-listing.
• Clear criminal and credit record

Benefits: 

• We believe in a work hard, play hard mentality.
• We have a lot of fun together, and we achieve big goals.
• At Nxatel, you’ll enjoy free bagels on Mondays, catered lunches on Fridays, and Cold Stone ice cream every other Wednesday.
• In addition, you’ll get to work in a fun and relaxed environment with room to grow your skills.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Our job opportunities offer advancement and growth in your careers, as well as continuous training and support aimed at ensuring growth and efficiency.

At Nxatel, our team does amazing things to help over 1000 businesses in South Africa. solve their toughest communication challenges.

SACAA Administration Internship Programme 2021

 Description: Apply now for SACAA Administration Internship Programme 2021.

The South African Civil Aviation Authority is taking applications for the 12 months Internship Programme in the Aviation Safety Operations Division.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Degree in Administration or any relevant and equivalent qualification.

Closing Date: 23 April 2021

Specification

• Graduates with Administration qualifications are invited to apply for the 12 months Internship Program.
• Successful Interns will be afforded an opportunity to gain work experience in Aviation Safety Operations Division.
• The Appointed Interns will receive a monthly stipend and will be required to arrange their own accommodation and transportation to work.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

The SACAA will process applications as soon as possible. If you have not heard from us within 90 days after the advert closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Preference will be given to Employment Equity candidates in line with Employment Equity Targets.

Westin Management Development Trainee Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the Westin Management Development Trainee Programme 2021.

Westin Cape Town is offering a Traineeship opportunity to suitably qualified candidates who is committed to the process with a positive, professional disposition. 

The successful candidates will be exposed to different aspects of the business and expected to support and assist the operational requirements of the assigned department 

About

At Westin, we are committed to empowering the well-being of our guests by providing a refreshing environment, thoughtful amenities, and revitalizing programming to help ensure that they leave feeling better than when they arrived. We recognize that travel can be disruptive to our guests’ well-being, and we’re energized to assist as partners in helping them maintain control and soaring above it all while on the road. 

Everything we do is designed to help guests be at their best, and they appreciate our supportive attitude, anticipatory service and extensive knowledge on how to best assist them throughout their stay.

 We are looking for dynamic people who are excited to join the team and ready to jump into any situation to give a helping hand. If you’re someone who has is positive, adaptable and intuitive, and has a genuine interest in the well-being of others around you, we invite you to discover how at Westin, together we can rise.

Location: Cape Town

Applicants should meet the following minimum requirements:

• Grade 12
• Valid South African Identity document
• Registered student within the Hospitality field of studies
• In-service letter from the relevant Tertiary Institution
• Ability to read, write and speak professionally in the English language
• Willing to work shifts, weekends and public holidays and as per operational requirements

 CLICK HERE TO APPLY 

Marriott International is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

Sasria Investment Graduate Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the Sasria Investment Graduate Programme 2021.

Recording, monitoring, analysing, and reporting on Sasria’s investment portfolio. Identification of investment risks and opportunities. Assisting the Senior Manager: Investments with investment reporting.

Location: Illovo, Johannesburg

Closing Date: April 15, 2021

Minimum requirements:

• BBusSci/ Bcom Finance/Investments.
• A South African citizen of any gender. 
• Preference will be given to disability candidates.

Advantageous:

• CFA (or studying towards it) and Excel advanced.

Attributes

• Confidentiality
• Commitment
• Attention to detail
• Service oriented
• Ethical
• Credible
• Confidence
• Initiative
• Integrity

Skills

• Communication skills
• Computer skills
• Interpersonal relations skills

CLICK HERE TO APPLY 

New fund to assist black farmers

Black farmers who have historically been unable to access financing to grow their operations are being given a helping hand.

Government has set aside R1 billion to help black farmers become commercial farmers.

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), launched the Agri-Industrial Fund recently.

The fund, which is part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s economic stimulus package for small-scale farmers, is being financed by DALRRD and run by the IDC.

It aims to help establish black-owned, large-scale commercial agricultural projects.

The fund will focus on establishing competitive contract growers in the poultry value chain; protein value chains, such as poultry, pork and beef; and other agro-processing ventures that support the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plans.

The initiative will also focus on enabling export-quality produce to be grown on community-owned agricultural land (restituted or communal properties) across the country.

“The broader agricultural sector is central to the recovery of the local economy but, most importantly, its objectives are consistent with the IDC’s role in increasing the number of black commercial farmers,” says the IDC’s Chief Executive Officer Tshokolo Nchocho.

DALRRD Acting Director General Mooketsa Ramasodi says the IDC understands the funding constraints black farmers face.

“We believe that this partnership will help break down some of the barriers to entry and elevate these farmers to become fully-fledged commercial farmers,” he says.

Through this partnership, funds will be provided to qualifying end beneficiaries as grants. There will be no pricing and subsidy implications from a risk perspective – a factor Nchocho says is the fund’s biggest drawcard.

“This key component of the fund aims to eliminate barriers to entry, thus attracting a significant number of black farmers looking to scale up their commercial farming activities,” Ramasodi adds.

The fund will be used alongside the IDC’s other internal funding products to support businesses through a blended approach.

Marilyn Siegel thriving despite the challenges

An award-winning farming enterprise, managed by Marilyn Siegel, is opening doors of opportunities for its employees.

Based in Grabouw in the Western Cape, Nitaflo (Pty) Ltd, trading as Protea Farm, employs 23 permanent staff members, 12 of whom are young people, and 30 seasonal workers.

Farm owner Marilyn Siegel’s passion to develop farmworkers started after seeing her father Edward van Niekerk, a former farmworker grow to owning his farm.

She explained that her father was a farmworker who received skills training that helped him run the Protea Farm which has now been turned into a family business.

“Watching my father succeed from farmworker to farm owner motivated my decision to also empower my employees.” Siegels also said that her staff members participated in an irrigation training session hosted by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) and also underwent firefighting training.

At the beginning of 2019, one of the farm’s general workers indicated that he hoped to study further and not only was he assisted with his application, but Protea Farm also helped his adult daughter with her application.

Siegels and her family received the farm through a 30-year lease agreement in 2013 as part of the DRDLR’s Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy programme.

Siegels was also the 2019 Top Entrepreneur: Commercial in the Western Cape round of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ Female Entrepreneur Awards.

She said in 2019 they planted apples on an additional seven hectares of land and plums on 10 hectares of the 74.68-hectare farm. Protea’s plums and apples are packaged and exported to Europe and Thailand. The farm also supplies apples to Appletiser.

Farming has not been without its challenges, said Siegels. In 2017, they lost over R2.5 million in the drought that hit the Western Cape, which prompted them to find alternative water supply sources.

Today, the farm has two dams, a borehole, water rights from the Groenland Irrigation Board and access to water from the Kromme River.

Siegels said she hopes that her farm can play its part in developing the agriculture industry in the area. “We need to show people that agriculture is important. It can improve their lives,” she said.

Source: GCIS Vuk'uzenzele.

Siposetu Jilata has big dreams for her farm

A young sheep farmer, Siposetu Jilata, is looking to become a producer of the highest grade Dohne Merino sheep in the Eastern Cape.

Owner of Agric EC Siposetu Jilata explains that this breed is known for its quality wool and meat.

Jilata, who holds a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics degree from the University of Fort Hare, started the farm in 2017, after struggling to find a job.

Through Agric EC, she offers business development consultancy services to people who are in the agriculture sector.

“I help up-and-coming farmers with drawing up business plans, proper documentation to apply for funding and other administration processes that are needed to run a successful commercial farm.

“This part of the Agric EC business works with the Small Enterprise Development Agency and other development agencies, which recommend clients to me when people need to get business development services,” says Jilata.

Unfortunately, the consultancy business took a knock because of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) so Jilata started focusing on the livestock farming side of her business.

The sheep she sells for between R1 800 and R2 200 each have helped keep her afloat.

“COVID-19 slowed down the consultancy business due to people no longer starting farming projects. A lot of people who were using their savings or extra income to start farming enterprises no longer had the appetite for it.

“I had started farming Dohne Merino sheep in 2017 but they were not the main focus of my business until last year, when COVID-19 arrived.

“Then, in an effort to improve the quality of my sheep, I applied for and received two Dohne Merino sheep from the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform.”

The two rams Jilata received from the department are of a better quality than her current herd. She says she will use the rams to breed and thus improve the quality of the wool and meat produced on her farm.

The donation to Jilata was part of the department’s livestock improvement programme, which is aimed at helping small-scale farmers become more competitive against their established counterparts. 

For more information on the programme, contact the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform at 040 602 5006 or www.drdlr.gov.za.

Primrose Makgatho: The future is in farming

Women are encouraged to dig in and grow a brighter future through farming.

Primrose Makgatho of the AP Agricultural Cooperative in Bronkhorstspruit says farming is one of the most sustainable jobs in the world because no day passes without people needing a meal.

“The growth of our country’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, and I would like to encourage women, youth and people living with disabilities to plough away to secure their future,” she says.

Makgatho discovered her passion for farming in 2010 when her husband asked her to join his farming business. She initially assisted with the bookkeeping, but later realised that the agriculture sector holds opportunities for women .

Primrose Makgatho encourages young women to take up agricultural opportunities to secure their future.

“In 2018, we successfully applied for land from the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to start our women-led cooperative.

“I grew up in the rural areas, so the love of agriculture was always hidden in me from an early age, although I took long to realise it because I spent most of my career running a construction company.”

Her business specialises in crop and animal farming and is benefitting from the department’s economic stimulus package.

“The department has assisted our farm by granting us the land on which we operate. It also purchased farming equipment and agricultural inputs worth R4 million for our farm, including tractors, planters, boom sprays, offset discs and bulk trailers,” she says.

Makgatho says female farmers in South Africa are seeing the light in the previously male-dominated agricultural sector.

“There is a huge opportunity for young female farmers. We have young people on our farm who we are mentoring, and government has opened doors for more young people to consider careers in farming, so that is encouraging. I would advise young women to be passionate and focused,” she says.

Makgatho is also the chairperson of Women in Agriculture and Rural Development in Gauteng.  

To find out more about the stimulus package, contact the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform at 012 312 8911 or www.drdlr.gov.za.

CoJ Events Support Officer Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the City of Johannesburg, CoJ Events Support Officer Internship Programme 2021.

The City of Johannesburg (CoJ), Group Communication and Marketing Department has the following Internship opportunities available for a period NOT exceeding eighteen (18) months.

This Vacancy is open to YOUTH in the Johannesburg community. An internship programme is an intervention by the City of Johannesburg to address the growing demand by tertiary institution for students to undergo on-the-job exposure, as a pre-requisite to acquire an academic qualification or as a requirement after the acquisition of an academic qualification to obtain experiential training. 

The City is committed to provide work-based training for students.

Closing Date: 21 April 2021

Workplace: Metropolitan Centre, 158 Civic Boulevard, Braamfontein.

The details are as follows:

1. Department: Group Communication and Marketing

Branch: Events

Designation: Intern: Events Support Officer

Salary Range: R8 329.27 pm (cost to company, basic salary, no benefits)

Appointment Requirements:

• Diploma or Certificate in event management, public relations, communication, administration and/or hospitality industry;
• Knowledge of protocol, diplomacy and etiquette;
• Computer literacy and good communication skills;
• Must be able to work extended hours as and when required;
• Ages between 18 – 35 years; and
• Only City of Joburg residents will be considered

Primary Function: 

• Provide support in the project management and delivery of events to achieve the City’s strategic objectives. 
• Responsibilities include pre-event planning, support to meetings and event participants, on the day logistics and plans, coordinating registration and attendance as well as event follow-up.

Key Performance Areas: 

• Protocol, diplomacy and etiquette. Planning, design, production and implementation of events, which includes all project delivery elements within time limits from conceptualisation to end. 
• Conferring with client and key stakeholders of the department to determine event requirements. Responding to queries. 
• On-the-day logistics of events, running post-event follow-up with participants, and evaluating events. Organising, planning and executing virtual and hybrid events. 
• Administrative work, e.g. minute- and report-writing, compilation of briefing packs, Joint Operations Committee (JOC) bookings and general administration, and panel/contract administration, etc.

Leading Competencies: 

• Work independently and in a multi-disciplinary team. 
• Client/guest/supplier relations and hospitality. Attention to detail, patience and concentration. Creativity (e.g., adapting to the new normal) and time management.

Core Competencies: 

• Strong interpersonal and communicating skills (both rally and in writing).
• Strong team working skills, the ability to work independently and seize opportunities. 
• Strong computer skills and creative problem-solving. Batho Pele principles.

Contact Person: Vuyo Mazamisa

Tel No: (011) 407 6452

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

1. Interested applicants are invited to apply for the positions listed in the circular.

2. Complete online job application form and attached all relevant documents.

3. The City of Johannesburg reserves the right not to make an appointment.

4. Applications, which have not been responded to within 6 weeks of closing date, should be regarded as unsuccessful.

5. Appointments will be made in accordance with the COJ Employment Equity policy and People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

6. The City of Johannesburg is an equal opportunity employer.

7. Finalization of the appointments to be within 4 months from the closing date of circular.

19 X Telkom Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the 19 X Telkom Internship Programme 2021.

Openserve, a business unit of Telkom SA, is offering a number of internship in our Eastern & Central Region.

Closing Date: 12 April 2021

Location: Newcastle; Empangeni; Durban; Port Shepstone; Bloemfontein; Kimberley

Competencies

• Willingness to learn
• Computer literacy
• Time Management
• Communicating
• Customer Focused

Qualifications

• N6 Electrical Engineering, Planning, GIS; N6/Diploma/BTech/Degree in Electrical Engineering Heavy Current, Wiremans license, registered with Dept of Labour and be certified to issue COCs, 
• Project Management ; 
• IT Diploma;
• N6 / S4 Telecommuncations/Electrical Engineering Light Current; N6/S4 DC Power Heavy Current

Special Requirements

• South African Citizenship.
• The target audience for this internship opportunity is for individuals not older than 35 years (youth age group as defined by the National Youth Commission Act).
• The Internship will be for a period of 24 Months.
• You should Not have participated in any Internship/Learnership before.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

In accordance with EE Plan, this advert is open to all race and genders. Preference will be given to EAP applicants.

In other instances you may be required to work from home. ( Covid depending)

17 X Telkom Engineering Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the 17 X Telkom Engineering Internship Programme 2021.

Openserve, a business unit of Telkom SA, is offering a number of internship opportunities in our North Eastern Region.

Location: Polokwane; Secunda; Middelburg; Rustenburg; Cartonville; Ligtenburg; Centurion

Closing Date: 12 April 2021

Competencies

• Willingness to learn
• Computer literacy
• Time Management
• Customer Focuses
• Communicating

Qualifications

• National Diploma Electrical Engineering (Light Current);
• N6 Electrical Engineering Light Current
• Special Requirements
• South African Citizenship.

PLEASE NOTE:

• The target audience for this internship opportunity is for individuals not older than 35 years (youth age group as defined by the National Youth Commission Act)
• The Internship will be for a period of 24 Months.
• You should Not have participated in any Internship/Learnership before.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

In accordance with EE Plan, this advert is open to all race and genders. Preference will be given to EAP applicants.

In other instances you may be required to work from home. ( Covid depending).

Please note that preference may be given to Employment Equity candidates (including people with disabilities).

24 x Telkom ICT Internship Programme 2021

 Description: Apply now for the 24 X Telkom ICT Internship Programme 2021. 

Openserve, a business unit of Telkom SA, is offering a number of internship opportunities.

Location: Cape Town ; Centurion

Closing Date: 12 April 2021

The following fields are available: 

• Network Operation Centre
• IT Service Delivery - (IT Infrastructure & Service Delivery and Business Intelligence and Reporting)
• Sales + Marketing
• Commercial Operations
• Digital Strategy (Technical Product Development and OSS /BSS / RPA & Integration )

Competencies

• Willingness to learn
• Computer Literacy
• Time Management
• Responsible
• Customer focus

Qualifications

• N6/National Diploma/BTech Electrical Engineering (light current) or Telecommunications or Computer Science or Computer Engineering
• Degree/Diploma Project Management
• Degree/Dipioma Information Technology, including Analytics/Data Science/Programming
• BComm/Financial/Accounting Degree or Diploma
• Technical /Electrical/Electronic Engineering/Telecommunications degree/IT qualification, Computer Science
• Marketing degree, including Digital Marketing/Social Media
• Special Requirements
• South African Citizenship.

PLEASE NOTE:

• The target audience for this internship opportunity is for individuals not older than 35 years (youth age group as defined by the National Youth Commission Act)
• The Internship will be for a period of 24 Months.
• You should Not have participated in any
• Internship/Learnership before.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

In accordance with EE Plan, this advert is open to all race and genders. Preference will be given to EAP applicants.

In other instances you may be required to work from home. ( Covid depending).

Please note that preference may be given to Employment Equity candidates (including people with disabilities).

Distell Temp Learning and Development Internship Programme 2021

Description:  Apply now for the Distell Temp Learning and Development Internship Programme 2021.

The purpose is to provide practical work experience to students who are in their final year of study and requires In-Service Training in order to obtain their qualification. 

Successful interns will be expected to enter into a 12-month contract commencing 1 May 2021 and terminating 30 April 2022 .

Closing Date: 16 April 2021

Key Learning Areas include (but are not limited to):

• Administer the LMS (Learning Management System)
• Assist with development and testing of eLearning courses
• Contribution and immersion in building a digital learning culture
• Assist staff with performance management processes (inclusive of career and development plans)
• Involvement in new employee o n-boarding
• Involvement with Internal and External training programs
• Build and maintain external service provider relationships
• Facilitation of supplier management platform
• HR Administrative tasks (including reports and dashboards)
• Service Delivery to all internal stakeholders

To qualify for selection and participation in this programme, candidates must satisfy the following criteria:

• Currently in the process of completing studies within Industrial Psychology/ HR M/HRD undergrad degree and require in-service training in order to complete your curriculum
• Eager to learn, good work ethic and positive can-do attitude with high energy levels
• Demonstrated Advanced Computer literacy – Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Sound verbal and written communication skills,
• Strong numerical aptitude and analytical abilities ,
• Exposure to eLearning course development will be an advantage 
• Attention to detail,

Prospective interns must submit the following:

• Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate,
• Covering letter / Letter of Motivation,
• A Curriculum Vitae,
• Certified academic record,
• A format for evaluation, required by the tertiary institution indicating that in-service training is required in order to complete your qualification

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

From our diverse portfolio of well-known brands to a vibrant Employee Value Proposition, from cellar masters to winemakers, brand managers to laboratory technicians and sale staff, we're always on the lookout for ambitious and talented people to join us.

Bet.co.za Digital Marketing Internship Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the Bet.co.za Digital Marketing Internship Programme 2021.

Are you looking to start your career in Marketing? BET.co.za offers an internship that will give you exposure to the tools used on a daily basis by our marketing department. 

The ideal intern is someone who can learn on the fly and has agility to understand concepts and quickly put them in practice. This internship is a two way street, we want to give exposure to the real world of working in a fully fledged marketing department and at the same time we need all hands on deck to get things done.

We are looking for young individuals that have recently graduated and/ or with no more than 2 years of experience in the field, that are curious to learn and also keen to make an impact.

If you have delivered on all desired outcomes for this internship, by the end of the programme this opportunity could potentially turn into a job offer.

Location: Cape Town

Closing Date: 03 May 2021

We structure the internship in four different courses, see information below:

Chameleon and Asana course

Duration: 1 week

Interns are introduced to our software backend (Chameleon) as well as our project management tool (Asana). Interns will also be briefed on the structure of the marketing department and given an overview of its strategic goals.

Acquire basic knowledge of Bet.co.za, its marketing strategy and the role of the marketing department in the organisation

Learn how to navigate Chameleon in order to find relevant information

Develop basic understanding of workflow procedures and use of Asana

Familiarise yourself with Bet.co.za internal communication tool - Slack

Social Media course

Duration: 8 weeks

Objectives

The objective of this course is for interns to develop a thorough understanding of the social media strategy across all social channels. Interns will work alongside our Social Media manager to develop social media strategies in order to achieve marketing goals as well as manage and create quality content on social platforms. This includes identifying potential opportunities or events that will allow us to create content that is relevant, informative, and engaging. Other duties include collaborating with customer support and design teams, staying on top of trends and tracking and reporting results.

Acquire basic knowledge of social media strategy, tools, KPIs and reporting

Implement Bet.co.za style and tone when communicating with customers

Develop ability to not only generate ideas but execute following creative briefing process

Assist social media manager in developing and implementing social content calendar

Contribute to management of social communities, driving engagement and resolving queries

Retention course

Duration: 8 weeks

This course will introduce interns to Bet.co.za’s retention strategy. Interns will familiarise themselves with CRM concepts, including customer segmentation, customer lifecycle stages, campaign management and onboarding flows. Working closely with our Head of Retention, interns will develop and execute retention campaigns across multiple channels including email, sms, push notifications and inbox messages. They will also be collaborating with our Head of Data and VIP team in order to develop an understanding of player value.

Acquire basic understanding of CRM fundamentals and the role customer retention plays in the organisation

Become proficient Optimove user with ability to setup and report on campaigns

Assist Head of Retention in development and implementation of promotions & bonuses

Work with Head of Retention to execute campaigns across owned-media channels

Assist VIP department in identifying and unlocking value in our player base

Acquisition & Content

Duration: 8 weeks

Objectives

This course will be split equally between two areas - content marketing and paid media. At the end of this course, interns will have developed a practical understanding of how Bet.co.za uses paid media to acquire new customers. This includes campaign creation, management and reporting across various channels including Facebook, Google, Affiliate platforms and third-party publishers. Interns will also work closely with our content team to curate, edit and publish slick betting-focussed content.

Assist the Head of Acquisition to ensure all campaign strategies align with above-the-line campaigns, to both support and boost performance across all channels

Work with Paid Media Manager to manage and grow affiliates and third-party advertising channels

Work with the Design Department to ensure all campaigns maintain a consistent brand image in line with the organisation's strategy

Work with the Content Department to develop and execute content strategy

What is required for the internship

• Marketing degree or relevant qualification
• A keen interest on sports
• Up to two years of experience in the field of marketing
• Candidate profile

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

We will only be reviewing applications that come through the link provided above, we will not be looking at applications that come through the various search engines we are posting from.

Please note that due to high volumes of CV's received we might take some time to contact you. We usually take 2 weeks to allow for applications to come through and contact those candidates that meet the criteria desired. We will contact all other candidates within a month form posting to let you know of the outcome of your application.

eNCA Video Wall Graphics Operator Graduate Programme 2021

Description: Apply now for the eNCA Video Wall Graphics Operator Graduate Programme 2021.

The graduate will be responsible for creation and operating sequential graphics for display on the video wall during a live and pre-recorded productions.

Location: Hyde Park

Closing Date: 14 April 2021

1.Preparation

• Prepare the video wall graphics as per running order.
• Loading and testing the rundown
• Ensuring that all the graphics elements are loaded and playout correctly
• Ensuring all spelling for graphics are correct.
• Running on air tests when required.
• Checking all graphics before going to air

2.Production

• Create effects for video wall use
• Route live feeds to the video wall
• Control server playback to the video wall
• Playout video wall elements as per running order

3.Coordination

• Completing graphics requests using provided templates on the Graphic Computers, as per the required standards.
• Operating graphics play-out computers during live and pre-recorded programs.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Ability to work in and to demonstrate a flexible approach in a fast changing and sometimes pressurized environment, working to high standards and tight deadlines
• Demonstrates craft and operational aptitude alongside great team-working whilst taking personal responsibility to get things done and content to air.
• Prepared to embrace a learning environment - eager to seek out opportunities to expand knowledge of the role through both formal training and other experiences.
• Effective communicator - interprets sympathetically the requirements of programme-makers and is able to tactfully suggest alternatives.
• Excellent team worker - participates fully in contributing to the team’s decisions; flexible and proactive in taking on the roles required.
• Demonstrates awareness of the business and the pressures on each individual to be as cost-effective as possible.
• Strives to provide the highest quality of work, both artistically and technically, whilst understanding and working within the limits imposed by available finance, resources and deadlines.
• Demonstrable interest in programme output.

Requirements

• Education: Matric – Diploma/Degree in Graphic Design
• Languages: Business English

Specific Professional Competencies:

• A working knowledge of the technical operations and functions of VizRt
• Good communication skills
• Must be able to work in live and pre-record environment
• Must be able to work under pressure
• Proactive and organized
• Well organized (methodical) and disciplined
• Must pay attention to detail
• Able to work under pressure - multi task
• Able to take direction
• Able to work with crew and editorial staff
• Able to work in a digital environment
• Follow any instructions issued by the Head of Operations and or person delegated to do so. These may be standard or ad hoc instruction
• Understanding of role players
• Good Computer literacy and a good understanding of file structures
• Able to troubleshoot
• Good knowledge of sound and video signal
• Able to work in a live and pre-record environment
• Have understanding of broadcasting environment
• Strong typing, spelling and grammatical skills in the English language.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Able to execute cleanly on air in a high stress, rapidly changing environment
• Able to quickly trouble shoot

CLICK EHRE TO APPLY

eMedia’s strength is its employees. Its success is driven by their unwavering loyalty, their commitment to excellence, their willingness to persevere in the face of adversity and their steadfast belief in the future of the business. It is this spirit that is the essence of eMedia DNA.

Zithulele Maths Teacher Internship Programme 2021

 Description: Apply now for the Zithulele Maths Teacher Internship Programme 2021. 

We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Mathematics Intern to join our team in Zithulele, Mqanduli.

At Zithulele, you will form part of the Masakhane Team. The Maskhane Program works with Grade 4 - 7 learners in after school lessons three times a week. Learners from different schools meet in a central location to engage in active bilingual Maths and Language lessons aimed at strengthening learners’ foundational skills, building their personal agency and assisting them with the difficult transition to English as a medium of instruction after Grade 3.

Closing Date: 12 April 2021. 

If you have the passion and enthusiasm for…

• Improving rural education outcomes in South Africa

• Learning and growing as a teacher…

then we welcome you to apply to join our dedicated team.

Key responsibilities:

• Prepare and lead the execution of Maths lessons in the afternoons and at bootcamps, and assist with planning, with support from your programme manager.
• Provide mentorship and accountability to a team of young ‘paragons’ (local gap year students) and other volunteers as they act as tutors/teaching assistants.
• Engage positively with coaching and feedback on your lesson from your programme manager and/or Education Lead.
• Maintain necessary resources and analyse applicable data.
• Build relationships with Maths Teachers from schools in the area during school visits, with support from your programme manager.
• Perform all administration tasks arising from your involvement in these programmes.

The Requirements for this role are:

• A BEd or PGCE (with Mathematics qualifications) or other equivalent qualification
• Experience as a Maths teacher in the intermediate Phase (preferable)
• Computer literacy
• Bilingual (isiXhosa and English)

Preferred Traits:

• Ability to motivate and lead learners and young tutors alike
• A passion for educational change, rural schools and innovation
• Drivers’ license preferable

How to Apply:

Please send applications to careers@axiumeducation.org or hand in at the Axium Office.

For your application to be considered, please ensure that your application includes the

following:

• CV (with references), motivation letter and copy of your ID
• Matric certificate
• Police clearance (or proof that you are in the process of acquiring it) will be required upon appointment

Please include the TITLE of the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email or

on your hard copy application. 

Applications that do not have the title of the position will not be considered.

We will only be contacting shortlisted candidates. If you have not heard from us by 30 April 2021 then please consider your application unsuccessful.

New app to assist with food security

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has developed an App to contribute to food security in South Africa. According to Matodzi Phaswana, Unit Team Leader, the Maize Information Guide app was developed to assist farmers to increase their harvests and contribute to food security.

The App provides scientifically proven data on maize production; insect identification and disease management; and weed and nematodes control. Farmers can download the app from Google Play Store.“The app is user friendly and also has the capability to identify pests and weeds on crops based on information inputted by users,” said Phaswana.

“Maize is one of the top staple foods in South Africa and globally. Due to its affordability, it contributes significantly to food security and nutrition. As the ARC, we are committed to providing farmers and industry with technological solutions aimed at enhancing good-quality food production,” she added.

Phaswana understands the importance of food security and farming all too well, following her rural upbringing in the village of Muswodi Tshisimani in Venda, Limpopo.“Most maize farmers experience challenges, including plant diseases, pest attacks and weeds. This has a huge impact on the production yields of crops. We are well aware that agriculture contributes to the GDP of the country and the continent and it is of utmost importance that farmers are given tools to assist them in maximising their production yields,” she said.

The Maize Information Guide can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play Store.

Bela-Bela egg farm tells an Eggcellent story

The Bela-Bela Communal Property Association (CPA) situated in Limpopo is regarded as one of the most successful land claim stories and stands as a beacon of success.

It all started after a successful land claim was lodged in 1998. The claim was accepted by the Land Claims Commission and subsequently published in the Government gazette on 7 November 2003.

When the Mabula community’s land claim was finalized, they resolved to do things differently and they are now reaping the sweet rewards of their decision.

The Bela-Bela CPA claimed land, which is situated in the Mabula area of the Waterberg District in the Limpopo Province, includes the well-known Mabalingwe Game Reserve.

After a successful land claim, the Bela Bela CPA started with the construction of the Bela Bela Communal Property Egg Farm in November 2013 and production commenced in 2014 producing 60 000 eggs per day.

During a recent visit to the farm, Chief Executive Officer of the Bela Bela CPA, Lefa Barrington Mabuela, told SAnews that they expanded the farm in 2015 and are now producing more than 110 000 eggs a day.

“We have employed 18 people and 10 of them are young ladies from the community. The plant is highly automated,” Mabuela said.

Mabuela said all the beneficiaries (community) and staff receive food packages from the farm every month.

COVID-19 lockdown affects operations

However, during the lockdown, Mabuela said operations at the farm are severely affected.

“Our operation is seriously affected by the lockdown. Sales dropped and COVID-19 regulations together with the Avian Influenza made us lose many of our customers,” he said.

In terms of the structure, Mabuela said the farm has 8-layer houses with capacities of 15 000 laying hens each.

The eggs produced at the farm are collected by Eggspert Eggs which grades, packages and supplies them to chain stores like Pick n Pay, Shoprite, Checkers, among others.

Some of the successes of the Bela-Bela CPA includes becoming the winner of the 2016 Vumelana Governance Award.

The Award aims to reward and encourage good governance practices by Communal Property Institutions.

Students exposed to work environment

Apart from producing eggs, the farm is in partnership with the University of Venda were final year students in the Department of Animal Science visits the farm and are exposed to the day to day work environment in agricultural sectors and industries.

While visiting the farm, students learn more about poultry farming and the running of the business.

Poultry Master Plan

The farm is one of the many farms benefiting from the Poultry Master Plan which was signed in 2019 during the second inaugural South African Investment Conference in Johannesburg.

The Poultry Sector Master Plan was developed in close partnership between government and a number of stakeholders in the industry, including poultry producers, processors, exporters, importers and organised labour.

The poultry industry is the largest segment of the agricultural sector responsible for at least 110 000 jobs.

At the time of the signing, the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, said she believes that the plan will provide a framework for a determined effort to grow jobs in the industry through a number of measures that will be implemented over a number of years.

“Significantly, it sets out a new joint vision across the value-chain, identifies five pillars that underpin the vision and creates a Poultry Sector Master Plan Council to monitor and drive implementation of the pillars,” the Minister said.

The Poultry Sector Masterplan seeks to address challenges through a combined strategy which:

Continue to increase the consumption of chicken in absolute terms, and on a per capita basis.

Ensure that locally produced products makes up an increasingly larger proportion of consumption over time.

Expand the industry by increasing capacity at all stages of the value chain, manufacturing of feed, farming of chickens and processing of poultry product thereby increasing fixed investment, employment and the value of output. In particular:

a. The output of poultry products to increase by 10% within 3 years.

b. The demand for poultry feed to increase by 300 000 tons per year which will support the maize and soya industries

c. 50 new contract farmers to be established within three years, each operating at a commercial scale and supported by the industry.

In order to achieve this, government and industry will work together to revamp certification systems so that they are able to meet the requirements of the major importing countries.

Increase the level of black participation and particularly ownership across the value chain and increase employment and worker share-ownership in the sector. 

Source: SAnews.gov.za

Food gardens to feed COVID-19 victims in Cape Town

Written by Daniel Bugan

Project encourages hard-hit communities to start backyard and urban farms to reduce food insecurity. 

An initiative to establish food gardens in areas where the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic has severely affected households was recently rolled out by the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee for Urban Management.

The Food Gardens Project forms part of the City’s Urban Management Support Programme’s initiative to establish sustainable food gardens that will help address food shortages in vulnerable communities.

Approximately R3 million has been budgeted for the project. The funding will go towards providing targeted beneficiaries with farming kits that include seeds, fertiliser, equipment and training, among others.

“Given the devastating impact of COVID-19 and growing unemployment, we all have to play a role to assist our citizens. We also have the responsibility to create opportunities for communities to feed themselves through initiatives like these,” says Alderman Grant Twigg, the Mayoral Committee member for Urban Management.

The initiative is underpinned by a skills development programme to ensure beneficiaries are equipped with appropriate skills for future employment in the sector.

The city anticipates appointing a service provider by March 2021 to assist with business development support, mentoring, the establishment of cooperatives and access to markets.

The aim is to involve a few hundred backyard and urban farms from across the city, comprising of 24 subcouncils. Each subcouncil was asked to identify 30 participants to start up food gardens. Assessments of the gardens are currently underway.

According to Twigg, more than 400 submissions from across the municipal area have been received so far.  

“We are busy with the assessment and verification process and once that is complete we will appoint beneficiaries,” he says.

The Food Gardens Project will provide support to new and existing farmers making use of areas such as backyards, schools, open spaces around city-owned buildings, churches, non-governmental organisations, clinics and libraries. The venture will not require capital costs.

“This project is aimed at encouraging households to start their own food production units.  Owning a garden offers great potential for improving a household’s food security.  This includes direct access to nutritionally rich foods, savings on food bills and fall-back food provision during lean periods,” says Twigg. 

Residents interested in being considered for the Food Gardens Project, can direct enquiries to urban.agriculture@capetown.gov.za