PROGRAMME EMPOWER ELDERLY FARMERS

June 20205.

Motlhaka Horticulture Farm is one of several agricultural enterprises being revived through a local Enterprise Development Programme, aimed at empowering local SMMEs, creating employment opportunities, and improving food security in the Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality.

Home to 20 local farmers, most of whom are elderly community members, the farm has already created 12 temporary and 20 permanent jobs, making a tangible difference in the lives of the farmers and their families.

“As part of our development initiatives, we identified abandoned agricultural projects as a powerful way to unlock economic opportunities, especially in rural areas. These farms not only restore food production but also inspire community pride,” said Qinisani Siveshe, Social Performance Manager at Zeerust Solar, which funds the programme.

One of the farm’s biggest challenges in the past was its inefficient irrigation system, which relied on old traditional methods to draw water from the Ga-Moetsane River. This system often led to water loss and overgrowth of weeds, while the distant plots remained under-irrigated. Zeerust Solar has since funded the refurbishment and expansion of the farm’s irrigation system, improving water distribution and reducing safety risks.

Formerly known as Ko Reising, the farm is located in Dinokana Village, close to Zeerust, and produces a range of crops, including maize, wheat, potatoes, green beans, and tomatoes. While most of the produce is sold informally within the local community, especially during festive seasons, there are aspirations to expand into formal markets in the future.

Reflecting on the impact, one of the elderly farmers shared, “We are very grateful for this support because now we can grow and sell more. This project will also help us to improve our produce and make a meaningful impact in the community and the agricultural sector.”

This support forms part of Zeerust Solar’s agricultural development efforts. The solar company has also supported five other local agri-SMMEs through its Agri4Change Programme, providing seed funding, mentorship, and foundational support to help small farmers grow sustainable businesses. The goal is to continue scaling support over the next two years, reaching more farms based on impact and resource availability.