Middledrift: Eastern Cape Agriculture MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe has announced the launch of a R19.5 million provincial irrigation schemes revival programme designed to bolster food security and drive agricultural economic growth.
According to South African Government News Agency, the programme aims to support vegetable, grain, and fodder production, along with the provision of equipment and machinery, impacting a total of 1,528 hectares of land across the province. This initiative is part of the commitments outlined in the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture’s 2025/26 policy speech, which positions the revival of irrigation schemes as a catalyst for agricultural development.
The MEC emphasized that revitalizing irrigation schemes is a priority during the seventh term of government to position agriculture as a key economic growth frontier. The programme is expected to improve agricultural productivity, enhance food security, provide reliable income for landowners, stimulate local economies, and boost livelihoods in rural communities. Kontsiwe noted, “This revitalisation programme will ensure food security, strengthen farmer support and strengthen partnerships between government, private sector and communities.”
The investment will see the Amathole District develop 613 hectares at a cost of R5 million, while the Chris Hani District will develop 700 hectares with an investment of R6 million. The OR Tambo District is set to develop 215 hectares, supported by R3.5 million.
In addition, the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA), the department’s implementing agency, has been allocated R5 million to support the commercialisation of production. This support includes organising markets, introducing new production technologies, providing technical assistance, and facilitating access to production finance. Kontsiwe mentioned that funding criteria are not limited, allowing districts to determine their own needs for infrastructure repairs or other specific requirements.
According to the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey, the Eastern Cape has the highest proportion of households with access to land at 67%, though only 37% is currently under productive use. The revitalisation of irrigation schemes presents a significant opportunity to unlock this potential and expand productive land use across the province. Kontsiwe highlighted that agriculture plays a crucial role in employing semi-skilled workers, and investment in this sector can significantly reduce unemployment and food insecurity.
She pointed out the Zanyokhwe Irrigation Scheme, which spans six villages and covers 635 hectares, with 412 hectares under irrigation. The scheme supports 87 landowners organised into seven primary co-operatives and one secondary co-operative. The launch event at the Zanyokhwe Irrigation Scheme in Middledrift will feature the introduction of the newly appointed board, a potato harvest demonstration, and the welcoming of graduate interns placed at the scheme for practical farming and business experience.
The MEC is also expected to distribute vegetable production inputs, irrigation pipes, fodder production inputs, and tractor implements to beneficiaries.