Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture

03/06/2026

Call for papers and presentations for the 9th Biennial National Land Care conference (2026). Link with more information below:

https://ecdoa-abdrekcebdhaggen.southafricanorth-01.azurewebsites.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Call-for-submissions-LandCare-Conference-FINAL-1JUNE-2026.pdf

02/06/2026

This month the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture will showcase the work being done by the Department in developing youth led enterprises in the province.

01/06/2026

31/05/2026

BUKELA - Xasivala inyanga yase-Afrika silisebe lezo limo sityelele amafama asebenza imihlaba yawo , esenza ngendlela ekwakusenziwa ngayo eAfrica mandulo. Ukulima nokuvelisa emasimini kubangela bazingce ngobu Afrika babo kunye nemveli.

28/05/2026

Amathole Agricultural Show, Market Day and Trade Fair

25/05/2026

The Department of Agriculture’s Land Use Management officials from the head office recently conducted a LandCare Programme evaluation in the Sarah Baartman District as part of the annual assessment required under the LandCare Conditional Grant framework.

The evaluation included site visits to selected VeldCare and JuniorCare projects to assess the impact, sustainability, and effectiveness of programme interventions. During these visits, engagement sessions were held with project beneficiaries to evaluate the programme’s contribution towards environmental conservation, sustainable land use, and socio-economic development within local communities.
The programme also facilitated a strategic engagement between Land Use Management and Agricultural Extension and Advisory Services officials to review the implementation of 2025/26 financial year projects. Discussions focused on project achievements, implementation challenges, areas for improvement, and the overall effectiveness of natural resource rehabilitation initiatives supported through the LandCare Programme.

The evaluation reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to promoting sustainable natural resource management and ensuring that LandCare interventions continue to deliver meaningful benefits to communities while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

22/05/2026

The Department of Agriculture’s LandCare Programme recently conducted a project evaluation at Rietbron Commonage Farm in Ward 8 of the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality, one of the municipality’s identified anti-poverty sites.

Since its implementation during the 2024/25 financial year, the LandCare Programme has supported the farming community through the eradication of Jointed Cactus and other invasive cacti species that negatively impact grazing land and the quality of mohair produced by Angora goats, which is one of the major economic activities in the area.

The programme has been supported by the Department with agricultural inputs and materials, green job creation, skills development, technical support, capacity building, and awareness on sustainable land use and natural resource management.
The project has also received additional support through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), which is currently developing farm infrastructure, including fencing, stock-water systems and dipping facilities.
Beyond the farm, the Department continues to support the broader community through household food security initiatives, home industry support, agricultural education, training and development programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and alleviating poverty.

The success of these service delivery programmes is driven by Ayanda Nyambali, and Agricultural Advisor from Extension and Advisory Services, who serves Wards 1, 7 and 8 within the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality.

22/05/2026

Meet, Esona Mankayi a hardworking farmer from James Calata in the Joe Gqabi District who started farming with just four pigs in 2021. 🐖🌱

Today, his farm has grown to include pigs, sheep, goats, and cattle; a true reflection of dedication and perseverance. Having grown up in a farming environment, Esona says agriculture was the natural path for him to follow.

He also appreciates the support of his extension and advisory practitioner, Bonisiwe Mbanjwa, whose assistance has helped improve the operations of the farm. 🚜✨

21/05/2026

Farmers Empowered Through Agricultural Awareness Campaign in Sakhisizwe 🚜

Local farmers from the Sakhisizwe Local Municipality gathered at Cala Hall for a successful agricultural awareness campaign hosted by the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture. The programme formed part of ongoing efforts to empower farming communities with information, practical support, and access to government services aimed at strengthening agricultural production and sustainability within the district.

Officials from various departmental directorates, including Extension and Advisory Services, PIMS, and Engineering, participated in the session and delivered informative presentations on important agricultural matters affecting local farmers. Discussions focused on crop production, animal identification, agricultural infrastructure development, and the importance of complying with application requirements when seeking government assistance and support programmes.

The programme was facilitated by Vuyo Bottoman, who encouraged active participation and engagement throughout the day. Farmers openly interacted with departmental officials, raising questions, sharing experiences, and discussing some of the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural sector within their communities.

Addressing attendees, Xolani Dwashu provided further guidance on infrastructure application processes and encouraged communities to protect and safeguard departmental assets made available for agricultural development and support.

Nocwaka Mbaru closed the session by highlighting the importance of attending awareness campaigns and information-sharing sessions, encouraging farmers to continue working closely with the Department in order to access opportunities and improve agricultural production within their communities.

The campaign concluded on a positive note, with words of appreciation extended to all stakeholders and farmers who attended and contributed to the success of the programme. The event marked another important step in strengthening collaboration between government and local farming communities while promoting sustainable agricultural growth in Sakhisizwe. 🌱🤝

21/05/2026

The Department of Agriculture LandCare Programme recently conducted a project evaluation at Maria Louw Secondary School in the Chris Hani District. The evaluation assessed the progress and impact of LandCare initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable land use and environmental conservation. The session was led by Mr Nceba Ndlondlo, the LandCare Coordinator for the district, who engaged with stakeholders to discuss achievements, challenges and opportunities to strengthen the programme in local communities.