SMALL-SCALE FARMING IN BOSHOF GETS A BOOST

August 2024, Boshof Solar Power.

Small-scale farming is a crucial element in ensuring food security and improving household welfare across South Africa. Recognising this, Boshof Solar Power has been actively supporting various agricultural enterprises in the area since 2020. These initiatives include assistance in poultry, crop, cattle, and sheep farming, providing much-needed funding and skills support to local farmers.

“Boshof is primarily a farming community, focusing on sheep, cattle, and game farming. However, vegetables have also been successfully cultivated at Kruidfontein Farm and a neighbouring farm,” explained Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Boshof Solar Power. “Despite the agricultural potential, many farmers struggle due to limited access to investment, forcing them to self-finance their operations. It is essential to assess the specific needs and opportunities for investment through local analysis and stakeholder engagement to ensure that support aligns with community goals.”

Kruidfontein Farm, a key beneficiary of Boshof Solar Power’s enterprise development programme since 2022, has expanded its vegetable production beyond its initial focus on pumpkins to include crops such as cabbage and lucerne. The planned increase in lucerne cultivation will allow the farm to supply animal feed to neighbouring farms, further strengthening its contribution to the local agricultural community.

The planned expansion at Kruidfontein Farm is expected to not only secure the farm’s long-term viability but also create much-needed employment opportunities. Currently managed solely by its owners, Mr Stallenburg and his wife, the farm will require additional labour as it grows.

Kruidfontein Farm, which operates on a 30-year lease from the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, sells its produce at the Kimberley Market and within the Boshof community. With ongoing support and mentorship from Boshof Solar Power, the farm aims to implement market development strategies, diversify its customer base, and collaborate with other farmers. These initiatives include leasing out farming machinery to generate additional income.

Mr Stallenburg expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am very pleased and appreciate the support given by Boshof Solar Power. Without their assistance, I would not have been able to plant any crops, as I struggled with water and electricity. Their intervention resolved these challenges, and the farming equipment provided has enabled me to fully utilise my land.”