A major step forward for emerging farmers was taken last week when Kouga Local Municipality’s Economic Development and Tourism section, under the Finance and Economic Directorate, delivered vital livestock production equipment to members of the Emgqubeni Farmers’ Cooperative, based just outside Weston on Zoetkloof Farm.
The municipality’s donation not only strengthens local food production but also underscores its dedication to transforming the lives of rural farming communities.
As part of its ongoing efforts to uplift small-scale and subsistence farmers, the municipality donated feeding and water troughs, along with large-capacity flow bins – critical tools aimed at addressing one of the cooperative’s biggest challenges: consistent access to clean drinking water for their livestock.
This marks phase one of a larger intervention to support local emerging farmers. In addition to the equipment, the municipality will also be providing a water pump.
There is an existing borehole on the property, and the pump will allow them to extract water efficiently and store it in the new troughs for their cattle.
The donation was warmly received by members of the Emgqubeni Cooperative, who expressed deep gratitude despite still facing infrastructure hurdles such as inadequate fencing and the threat of livestock theft.
Richard Brug, a cooperative member and cattle farmer, described the impact of the municipality’s gesture: “I have ten cattle and have been farming since my father passed away. One of my cows was almost completely slaughtered by thieves. This donation brings hope – it takes away some of the darkness and brings a glimmer of light.”
Another member, Benjamin Mzizi, who owns twelve cattle, echoed the sentiment, saying, “This support means a lot. Fencing is still a big problem – our cattle break out and damage other farmers’ property, and I once had to pay R4,000 in damages. Theft is another issue.
“We need cameras and secure fencing, but this donation is a significant start. Food for our cattle is also a challenge, and the troughs will help us manage feed better.”
