The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs and Land Reform brought together various backyard farmers in the Francis Baard District the past Friday to provide a platform to these farmers to interact and share challenges as well as experiences on backyard crop farming and chicken farming. According to Phemelo Manankong communications officer for the department, backyard farmers in the district have struggles to find a market for their produce which further adds to the challenge to earn an income. During the gathering the department handed over pig growers, poultry feed and starter-up packs to emerging farmers. The department stated that the aid provided is to encourage and motivate these farmers to continue planting to feed their households. Backyard gardening and poultry farming according to the department plays a critical role in the fight against poverty, nutrition, and the high food prices. 

Journalist: Rene Julies
Email: rckjulies@gmail.com