North West commits R1.2bn to agriculture as farmers look for real change

The North West government is placing agriculture at the centre of its rural development plans after committing R1.2 billion to the sector in its 2026/27 budget.

The funding, announced by Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha during the department’s Budget Vote and Policy Speech, is expected to strengthen farming operations, improve food production and create more opportunities for emerging farmers across the province.

For many farming communities, however, the real measure of success will not be the size of the budget, but whether the promised support reaches fields, farms and rural businesses where it is needed most.

Bigger investment in farmers and agricultural production

A major portion of the funding will go towards helping farmers improve production through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP).

An allocation of R153.1 million has been earmarked for production inputs such as seeds and fertiliser, while infrastructure support is also expected to help farmers improve their operations.

Recognising that successful farming requires more than financial assistance, the department has also committed R35.5 million to extension and advisory services. These programmes will connect farmers with technical experts who can provide guidance on improving productivity, managing resources and building sustainable agricultural enterprises.

The investment reflects a growing focus on ensuring farmers have both the physical resources and professional support needed to compete in an increasingly challenging agricultural environment.

Skills development remains a key priority

Beyond production, the budget places significant emphasis on developing agricultural skills.

More than 2,200 farmers are expected to receive training in crop production, livestock farming and agro-processing through an R8.3 million allocation.

The province has also reserved R10.6 million for farmer mentorship programmes, designed to help emerging producers gain practical knowledge from experienced agricultural professionals.

Young people entering the sector have not been overlooked. Another R12.05 million will support unemployed agricultural graduates through training opportunities and stipends, helping bridge the gap between education and employment.

Together, these farmer development initiatives account for R22.7 million, signalling an effort to build long-term capacity within the province’s agricultural sector.

Farmers welcome the direction but want action

The announcement has been met with cautious optimism by farmers across North West.

Emerging poultry farmer and agro-processor Kesaobaka Sejesho, based in Christiana in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality, believes the emphasis on youth, women, poultry production and agro-processing could unlock meaningful opportunities for smaller farming businesses.

She noted that these initiatives have the potential to help emerging farmers grow their operations and create employment, provided the commitments are translated into practical support on the ground.

Meanwhile, farmer Neo Mohlamme from the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District welcomed plans aimed at assisting producers who currently lack access to land, describing land access as one of the biggest barriers preventing many aspiring farmers from expanding their businesses.

Turning funding into lasting impact

Agriculture remains one of North West’s most important economic sectors, supporting rural households, food production and local employment.

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