In Marapyane, Mpumalanga, a group of passionate young individuals has established an agricultural cooperative called the Bakgatla Grain Project. The project aims to combat poverty and unemployment in the region by producing grains and vegetables. Founded in 2022, the cooperative has been involved in small-scale farming since 2016, driven by their love for agriculture and the desire to create employment opportunities for underprivileged women and youth.
Farming for a Brighter Future
Led by Thembi Kola, the Bakgatla Grain Project cultivates maize on 74 hectares and sunflower on 53 hectares of land. They plan to expand their vegetable production with the support of the government. Since its inception, the project has been granted a lease of 145 hectares of land by the Bakgatla Ba Mocha Traditional Council, which shares the cooperative’s vision.
The Spirit of Ubuntu
The Bakgatla Grain Project believes that collective efforts can combat poverty in Marapyane. Their mission is guided by the philosophy of ubuntu, championed by Nelson Mandela, which emphasizes the importance of working together. Kola believes that no one in their community should go hungry, and their organic and healthy produce is a testament to their commitment to the cause.
Creating Employment Opportunities
To date, the Bakgatla Grain Project has generated 99 temporary jobs, excluding the six founding members. They have also established a value chain with customers purchasing their produce, demonstrating the potential for success in their chosen field. The Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land, and Environmental Affairs has played a crucial role in the project’s achievements, providing various forms of assistance, including training and market access.
Government Support
The Bakgatla Grain Project has received support from both the provincial and national government. Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane commended the traditional leaders for collaborating with the government and the cooperative to alleviate poverty and unemployment in the region. Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development Thoko Didiza also expressed her support for the initiative, stressing the government’s commitment to tackling unemployment and improving the nation’s economy.
A Call to Action
As a testament to the potential of agriculture as a wealth-generating industry, Thembi Kola urged the South African youth to acquire the necessary skills to manage successful agricultural businesses. The Bakgatla Grain Project serves as an exemplar of how a group of dedicated young individuals can transform not only their lives but also those of their community through agriculture. Didiza encouraged people in rural areas to explore various agricultural opportunities, such as poultry, livestock, and crop farming, even at subsistence levels, to generate income and alleviate poverty.
