AGRICULTURE NEWS - The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has committed R36.856 million to the Red Meat Industry Development and Enhancement Programme, to reposition the province as a key player in South Africa’s red meat economy.
Agriculture and Rural Development MEC, Madoda Sambatha announced the funding during his department’s policy and budget speech at the North West Provincial Legislature.
The programme is expected to directly benefit 7 242 farmers, including 4 728 men, 2 219 women, 252 youth, and 43 people with disabilities.
The initiative will provide structured production support, access to value chains, and market integration.
“The initiative will be implemented through the beef beneficiation aggregation model, a framework designed to enhance farmer coordination, improve processing capacity, and establish sustainable linkages to commercial markets.”
The provincial department announced that the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District will be prioritised due to its high concentration of beef farming operations and its important role in the provincial livestock value chain.
In addition to boosting production, the programme is expected to create 321 temporary jobs and 87 permanent jobs, particularly in areas such as aggregation, logistics, technical extension, and feedlot operations.
The department believes that this move aligns with its broader goals of advancing rural development, increasing household incomes, and reducing unemployment in underserved communities.
Sambatha has declared the R36.8 million injection into the red meat industry, a decisive turning point for the North West agricultural sector.
“This is more than just funding; it is a bold statement of intent. We are transforming the red meat value chain, unlocking opportunities for emerging farmers, and positioning the province as a powerhouse in livestock production,” said Sambatha.
The MEC is of the view that this investment is a clear demonstration of the province’s steadfast commitment to building a transformed, competitive, and inclusive red meat industry.
“Through this programme, we are not only empowering our farmers, but also driving economic growth, boosting job creation, and laying a solid foundation for long-term food security and agro-industrial development,” Sambatha added.
The Red Meat Industry Development and Enhancement Programme forms part of the department’s strategy to broaden participation, enhance local beneficiation, and stimulate growth across rural economies, while contributing meaningfully to the provincial and national gross domestic product (GDP). – SAnews.gov.za
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