Award for Vhembe’s best female farmers

Outstanding female farmers falling under the jurisdiction of the Makhado Municipality received certificates and agricultural tools from the mayor, Cllr David Mutavhatsindi, during an event at the local show grounds last Friday.

They were competing for the municipal Farmer of the Year award and participated in categories that ranged from household produce and natural markets to informal produce and exporters. During the event, Mayor David Mutavhatsindi said that emerging farmers were playing an important role in food production. He encouraged women to become involved by starting gardens at the back of their houses. "We appreciate and value the contribution of women in economic activities of the province," said Mutavhatsindi.

Mr Nthambeleni Tshipuliso from the Department of Agriculture said that the purpose of the competition was to empower and encourage women to take part in farming. “We want to assist women, particularly those from previously disadvantaged rural areas. They must use their hands to curb the scarcity of food and the food price hike in the country,” he said.

The winner of the section for household food production, Ms Agnes Muthavhini, farms with spinach and tomatoes and sells them to a big supermarket. She currently employs two people. The commercial category was won by Marubini Multipurpose of Maila, while the best producer is Ms Florence Masithi.

The winners will represent Makhado Municipality in the district competition later this month.

Date:13 June 2014

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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