Four more emerging farmers got a helping hand from the Stellenbosch Municipality on Tuesday 12 March when a second round of contracts were signed.
The initial success unfolded in 2019, when the municipality entered into agreements with the first five farmers. Building on this foundation, Executive Mayor Gesie van Deventer, joined by Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Ivan Meyer, handed contracts to four additional emerging farmers this week.
According to the municipality its effort to lease municipal agricultural land to local farmers underscores its dedication to creating lasting opportunities and fostering inclusivity within the community.
This multi-pronged approach ensures the ongoing empowerment of emerging farmers and the fruitful use of previously underutilised land.
The contracts, ranging from nine to 11-year leases with the option of renewal based on productive land use, were handed over with a commitment to optimise every available patch of agricultural land in the local municipal area.
Van Deventer emphasised the municipality’s strategic objective of creating a business-friendly environment and promote job creation. The selection process considered the candidates’ farming experience, business plans and financial readiness.
Essential infrastructure such as electricity and water supply will also be supplied, while the municipality will help to facilitate connections with agricultural groups and government departments.
“Today’s signing ceremony reaffirms our commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth,” Van Deventer said. “The municipality must create an environment that enables business development and job creation. We are committed to boosting our economy and jobs.
“Giving emerging farmers with farming experience access to land does so in a sustainable and responsible manner. I wish them well and can’t wait to visit these farms in the coming months!”
Minister Meyer added the policy for the management of agricultural land, that allows for the effective utilisation of previously unused land, brings hope to farmers and the role they play in securing food security and jobs in the sector.
