GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Small and emerging farmers from across the Dr Beyers Naudé municipal area attended an informative land care awareness campaign at Alex Laing Hall on Thursday 2 October.
The event, hosted by the Department of Agriculture, focused on sustainable farming practices, land conservation, and responsible resource use.
Farmers were educated on land degradation, the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (Cara), and disaster risk reduction.
Councillor Xolile Galada encouraged more women to enter the farming sector, saying even small-scale backyard gardens or keeping a few livestock can make a difference.
He urged emerging farmers to unite, work together, and approach farming with patience, passion and commitment.
Provincial Land Care co-ordinator Mlungiseleli Tuswa emphasised that “agriculture is the backbone of the Eastern Cape economy” and highlighted the importance of veld management, water care, and the removal of alien plant species.
The Junior Land Care programme was also promoted to instil conservation awareness among the youth.
District Director Thozamile Lukhalo outlined land reform and redistribution policies, encouraging farmers to apply for agricultural support programmes, including livestock and crop production initiatives.
Application forms are available at all Department of Agriculture offices and online until 10 October.
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