Coligny: The North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, has initiated a series of engagements aimed at involving young people in the agricultural sector across the province. This initiative reflects a focused effort to empower youth and encourage their active participation in shaping the future of agriculture.
According to South African Government News Agency, these sessions are designed to support sustainable, youth-led growth in agriculture by providing young people with the tools and knowledge necessary to make a significant impact. The campaign began on Monday, 30 June 2025, in Coligny, located in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District.
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development highlights the importance of the Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (YARD) structure in this initiative. The elected leadership of YARD is tasked with enhancing youth representation and fostering development at all levels within the agricultural sector.
The engagement series is set to continue in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District on Friday, 4 July, at Mooilagte Farm in the Naledi Local Municipality. Subsequent events are planned for the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District on 11 July at Ga-Matsapola Farm, and in the Bojanala Platinum District on 14 July at the Moses Kotane Local Municipality.
The initiative collaborates with key stakeholders such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), North West University Business School, the Small Enterprise Finance and Development Agency (SEFDA), AgriSETA, the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), commercial banks, and development finance institutions. These sessions aim to provide young people with access to information on funding, skills development, mentorship, and market access.
Held in partnership with local municipalities through the District Development Model (DDM), the engagements are intended to integrate the needs and aspirations of young farmers into local economic development plans. Each session features live demonstrations and planting activities, emphasizing practical techniques and climate-smart agricultural methods.
During the Coligny engagement, Sambatha reiterated the department’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for youth in agriculture. He stated, “This is not a ceremonial exercise; it is a deliberate strategy to reposition young people as central drivers of agricultural growth and rural development. We are here to remove bottlenecks, unlock opportunities, and invest in future producers.”
The department encourages young individuals involved in farming, agri-processing, and rural enterprises to take full advantage of these sessions and the support available through government and its partners.