NDA Support Expands Poultry Project in South Africa

A poultry and vegetable project in South Africa is growing with support from the National Development Agency, following the opening of its Sekhukhune satellite office in Limpopo.

The agency said the new office has improved access to support for rural groups that previously travelled long distances to Polokwane. Provincial manager Gillian Mahange said the presence of the office has helped speed up assistance to cooperatives and community organisations.

One of the beneficiaries is the Dinalafase Primary Agricultural Cooperative in Maruleng, a women-led group involved in poultry and vegetable production. The cooperative was formed by seven women in response to unemployment and began operations in 2013 with 60 laying chickens, using small contributions from members and local support.

The NDA later approved funding of 170,000 rand, which helped the group expand to 600 chickens and purchase feed, medication and equipment, including a generator. The generator became important after the group lost its transformer, which affected water supply.

A cooperative member, Lydia Malatjie, said the support has improved operations and increased productivity. The group now supplies eggs, broilers and vegetables to local shops and schools.

The cooperative plans to expand its land from one hectare to two, as demand continues to exceed supply. Members are also seeking support for protective netting to reduce crop damage caused by heavy rains.

The project is encouraging more women to take part in income-generating activities in the area.