OR Tambo is the fifth district to host the combined Women Entrepreneur Awards (WEA) and Extension and Advisory Services Awards (EASA) programme as the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture (the department) continues its district rollout.
The programme forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to recognise women’s excellence in agriculture, promote their participation in the sector, encourage innovation, and strengthen extension services that support sustainable agricultural development across the Eastern Cape.
The WEA recognise women who have excelled in agricultural production and agribusiness, while the EASA acknowledge extension officers who provide technical support and advisory services to farming communities.
Speaking at the event, Andiswa Matinise, the department’s deputy director of district coordination of the Nyandeni and Port St Johns local municipalities, said the awards are an opportunity to honour the commitment of farmers who continue to contribute to the province’s agriculture sector despite ongoing challenges.
“We proudly recognise and honour the work being done by farmers in the OR Tambo District. By 2030, we have a mandate to eradicate poverty [in the province], and we couldn’t achieve that without your continued commitment. Your contribution ensures the Eastern Cape remains one of the country’s food baskets,” she said.
Matinise also paid tribute to the province’s extension and advisory services officials, describing them as the department’s “ground heroes” for the role they play in supporting farmers.
“These dedicated officials ensure that farmers receive the support they need to improve production and overcome challenges. Today, we recognise their commitment and the extra mile they continue to go in serving our farming communities,” she said.
Building a lasting legacy
In her address, Noluvuyo Nqeno, the department’s director of extension and advisory services, challenged farmers to remain focused on their purpose and avoid comparing themselves with one another.
“You must focus on what you are doing, why you are doing it, and whom you are doing it for. Nothing limits people more than trying to fit in with the crowd. Be proud of your uniqueness and build something that future generations will recognise and continue,” she said.
Nqeno encouraged experienced women farmers to intentionally mentor young people by involving them in the day-to-day running of their farming enterprises.
“Leave a legacy. Even if your children are not yet interested [in farming], remain patient, because what [you] have built should not be lost.
“Allow young people to participate in bookkeeping, administration, and the use of modern technologies within farming enterprises. This is how we will spark their interest and attract them into agriculture,” she explained.
She noted that approximately 27% of households in the Eastern Cape remain food insecure, saying stronger partnerships and continued support for farmers are essential to reversing the trend.
“If we are serious about supporting our farmers, we must change this trajectory. Like the eagle that flies higher than other birds, let us develop the vision and foresight to identify opportunities that will strengthen our farmers and grow the agriculture sector,” she said.
