Dwarskraal: The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has unveiled an ambitious plan to cultivate 6,000 hectares of land as part of its Crop Massification Programme, aiming to rejuvenate arable land and support struggling farmers across the province’s four districts.
According to South African Government News Agency, the announcement was made by Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Madoda Sambatha, during the launch of the 2025/26 Provincial Planting Season at the Retladirela Cooperative in Tswaing Local Municipality. The event, themed ‘Sustainable Crop Production for Food Security and Growth,’ gathered farmers and stakeholders to promote best practices in grain production and mechanized farming.
The Provincial Planting Season is a key intervention to activate land, enhance productivity, and provide both emerging and established farmers with technical knowledge and production inputs. Sambatha highlighted that over 2,500 hectares are designated for production in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District this year, backed by an investment exceeding R23 million.
Sambatha stated, ‘Planting is never about the present season; it is about shaping the future. Every seed we sow is a declaration of intent: to nourish communities, uplift rural economies, and build a resilient, self-sustaining province.’ He emphasized the importance of empowering farmers with resources and technical knowledge to achieve sustainable agricultural growth and ensure every hectare of productive land contributes to food security and economic growth.
The Retladirela Cooperative, operating on 565 hectares since 2005, is a key beneficiary of the Crop Massification Programme. This season, the cooperative will plant maize and sugar beans on 250 hectares. Cooperative member Nkwe Metswamere praised the department’s support, noting that recent mechanisation assistance has significantly boosted efficiency.
‘The recent mechanisation support received has significantly improved operational efficiency and reduced the time required for soil preparation and planting,’ Metswamere said. The mechanisation package includes tractors, ripper machines, planters, and other equipment, showcased during live demonstrations at the launch.
Metswamere encouraged farmers to engage with government programmes, stating, ‘Persistence and adherence to proper channels yield tangible results.’
Sambatha remarked that the launch of the 2025/26 planting season in Dwarskraal marked a significant step in strengthening the province’s agricultural base. ‘With a clear focus on land activation, farmer support, and sustainable production, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has laid the groundwork for a season defined by collaboration, resilience, and growth.’
As the programme progresses, Sambatha assured that the department will focus on translating policy into practical outcomes, ensuring that cultivated hectares contribute to food security, economic development, and the vitality of farming communities across North West.