In an effort to expand operations and improve the production of Ngcobo wool growers, Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality has put paid to its multi-year donation to local farmers.
The municipality closed the month, March 31, of commemorating its namesake by donating 200 ewes to the Wool Growers Association.
The farmers bring their 200, and 400 sheep are donated to the association.
The programme started in the 2022/ 23 financial year with 1 200 sheep donated so far. Integrated Planning and Economic Development political head, Nobuntu Mgidi, said the programme aimed to provide the farmers with the resources they need to expand operations and improve production.
“The wool growing industry plays a critical role in the local economy.
Supporting these farmers with the resources they need is an investment in the community’s future,” she said.
Mgidi said the initiative not only helps in improving agricultural practices but also improves the potential of local farmers, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Mayor Siyabulela Zangqa said the 2022 to 2026 council, whose term ends next year, had adopted the programme for wool farmers.
“We want to ensure that they produce quality wool that will give them great returns. After having had this programme for five years, we would like to have a processing facility in Ngcobo. This will ensure we create sustainable jobs for our people,” he said.
Wool Growers Association chairperson, Xolile Jezile, said the association made millions of rands in the 2022/ 23 and 2023/ 2024 financial years.
“When we sold our wool in the market the first time we made R10.5 million and the second time we made R13.2 million. We have not received the results for this year (2024/ 2025). But the results we have show the municipality’s programme is working,” Jezile said.
The association, Jezile said, was happy with its working relationship with the municipality.
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