Eastern Cape Department’s Aquaculture Workshop Boosts Small-Scale Farmers

by
1 min read
a q

The Eastern Cape’s Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) has partnered with the Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council to organize a two-day workshop for small-scale farmers. The event aimed to develop an inclusive provincial aquaculture and fisheries strategy to support the growth of the sector in the region.

Collaborative Efforts to Develop the Aquaculture Sector

Representatives from communal aquaculture and fisheries cooperatives, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, the private sector, the Department of Economic Affairs, Environment and Tourism, Walter Sisulu University, and various municipalities participated in the workshop. The licensed cooperatives in Coffee Bay, Port St Johns, and Bizana areas have received support from DRDAR in the form of diving gear and fishing equipment.

Need for Collaboration and Integration with Agriculture Value Chain

Mvesilo Tshemese, representing aquaculture cooperatives from the OR Tambo District, acknowledged the learning opportunity and the need for collaboration between departments, the private sector, and communities to develop the rural sector. DRDAR’s director for animal research, Mfundo Macanda, explained the necessity to coordinate efforts for improved food security and sustainable rural livelihoods. He stressed the importance of integrating emerging farmers into the agriculture value chain and providing them with a reliable market for their products.

Developing a Comprehensive Strategy for Sustainable Growth and Management

The strategy under development aims to address the sector’s challenges and support initiatives required for sustainable growth and management. Abongile Ngqongwa, DFFE Director for Small-Scale Fisheries Management, appreciated the efforts and emphasized the need for cooperation and complementation among government officials and the private sector to create meaningful impact.

Training and Capacity Building for Small-Scale Farmers

Training and capacity building for small-scale farmers are on the cards, with the appointment of full-time mentors for each of the 92 licensed cooperatives. Andre Bok, managing director of Kingfisher Enterprises, opined that small-scale farmers should gather as much information as possible. He appreciated the government’s support and revealed that his company is also collaborating with some cooperatives to help them develop.

A Promising Step towards the Development of a Thriving Aquaculture Sector

The workshop demonstrated the Eastern Cape government’s commitment to supporting small-scale farmers in the aquaculture sector. By fostering a collaborative approach and providing necessary resources, the region can unlock the sector’s potential, contributing to food security, economic development, and sustainable livelihoods for the communities involved. The event marks a promising step towards the development of a comprehensive strategy that addresses the challenges faced by small-scale farmers and paves the way for a thriving aquaculture sector in the Eastern Cape.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

s k
Previous Story

Promoting Skills Development and 4IR Implementation to Accelerate Broad-Based Black Empowerment

travel wine tasting
Next Story

Heavenly Hermanus: A Memorable Weekend Getaway

Latest from Blog

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.

hiv/aids world aids day

World AIDS Day: Celebrating Progress and Confronting Challenges

World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1, shines a light on the global fight against HIV/AIDS and calls for “Equal Rights, Equal Access” to treatment and prevention. This year marks 20 years since antiretroviral therapy (ART) became available, changing HIV from a deadly disease to a manageable condition for many. While big strides have been made, like improved testing and treatment access, challenges like stigma and treatment adherence still exist. Communities around the world come together to celebrate progress and remind us that the fight for healthcare equality continues. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the chance for a healthy life.

gender-based violence community justice

Champion of Justice: Sergeant Pule Morake’s Battle Against Gender-Based Violence in Wolmaransstad

In the small town of Wolmaransstad, Sergeant Pule Morake is a shining hero against genderbased violence. With fierce determination, he investigates crimes and helps victims find their voices. His biggest success came when he helped put a serial rapist behind bars for life, showing that justice can prevail. Morake inspires the community to stand together, reminding everyone that fighting against violence is a shared responsibility. His work fills the town with hope for a safer future where women and children can live without fear.

streetlight vandalism community engagement

Battling Streetlight Vandalism in Kraaifontein: A Community’s Struggle and Hope

In Kraaifontein, a lively part of Cape Town, the community faces a tough battle against streetlight vandalism. Broken lights not only make the neighborhood dark and unsafe but also waste resources meant for other important services. The City of Cape Town is fighting back by quickly fixing the lights and encouraging locals to report vandalism. With teamwork between residents and city officials, there is hope for a brighter, safer future where the community can shine together once more.

heritage preservation urban redevelopment

The Good Hope Centre: A Legacy in Transformation

The Good Hope Centre in Cape Town is getting a fresh start! Plans are underway to transform this historic site into a lively hub with homes, shops, and spaces for people to enjoy, all while keeping its beautiful dome intact. The city wants everyone to have a say in this exciting change, making sure it benefits the community and boosts the economy. With a rich past as a cultural center, the Good Hope Centre is ready to become a vibrant part of Cape Town’s future, blending its heritage with new opportunities for all.