Limpopo’s outstanding female farmers awarded

POLOKWANE – Song and dance were the order of the day when hundreds of women congregated to congratulate their fellow female farmer, Livhuwani Madima, after she was declared the overall winner.

Best producer in the smallholder category went to Thulane Dairy Farming of Sekhukhune with R125 000. Best subsistence farmer went to Tintswalo Rikhotso with R75 000 from Mopani District.

The MEC’s special award went to Tshililo Mulea of Vhembe District who pocketed R50 000.

Mokaba said the purpose of the competition was to empower and encourage women to partake in farming.

“We want to assist women, particularly those from previously disadvantaged rural areas. They must use their hands to curb the scarcity of food and the food price hike in the country,” she said.

According to Mokaba, the department encourages female farmers to work harder and not wait for the government to do something. Mokaba added that she is happy about what the farmers have done to put the province on the map.

During the event, she said emerging farmers play an important role in food production. She further encouraged women to become involved by starting gardens in their backyards.

“We appreciate and value the contribution of women in economic activities of the province,” added Mokaba.

“Sharing the number one position doesn’t bother me at all. I am actually happy that more women are being recognized for the splendid job that they are doing to improve their farming profiles and represent women with such aplomb,” said the overall winner, Livhwani Mulaudzi of Rebander Agribusiness Primary Co-oparative.

She went home with R250 000. She added: “I am also glad that the competition ended during Women’s Month as this goes a long way in augmenting the struggle for women’s rights economically. It’s worth it”.

capvoice@nmgroup.co.za

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