THE Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture has launched a R100 million provincial cropping programme aimed at strengthening food security, promoting youth participation in farming, and boosting rural economies. The launch took place in Bhaziya Village, Mthatha, as part of World Food Security Month celebrations.
Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe led the event, emphasising that agriculture remains a key driver of inclusive economic growth in the province. She urged young people to take advantage of opportunities in the sector and discard the perception that farming is only for the uneducated.
“We are here to show farmers that if they start something, government will support them. I’m proud to see young men and women working so hard,” Kontsiwe said.
To showcase youth excellence in agriculture, the department highlighted Jay Jay Farming, a youth-owned agribusiness in Mputi Village near Mthatha. The enterprise, co-owned by Sipho Joyi, produces maize, soybeans, and various vegetables, employing 12 permanent and up to 50 seasonal workers.
Joyi said the journey had not been easy, but perseverance and government support helped them grow. “Today, we can put food on the table for ourselves and our workers’ families,” he said.
For the 2025/26 cropping season, Jay Jay Farming plans to plant 130 hectares of soybeans, 500 hectares of maize, and 2 hectares of potatoes through partnerships with the Department of Agriculture, the Land Bank, and Potato SA.
The department aims to cover 23,000 hectares this season, following last year’s success in planting 22,584 hectares that yielded over 112,000 tons of maize. Kontsiwe said the initiative would help transform emerging farmers into commercial producers while eradicating poverty across rural communities.
