17 Jun 2013

The Department of Crop Production in the Ministry of Agriculture has handed over the second cluster fencing in Gani and Shongoshongo fields after the first one was delivered in Kotekae in Mohembo East in February.

Officially handing over the construction of Tshwaragano cluster fencing recently, the Ngamiland District agriculture coordinator (DAC), Mr Obert Mabutho disclosed that  government had a mandate to assist farmers to produce enough food for their families and the nation through the Integrated Support Programme for Arable Agricultural Development (ISPAAD).

Mr Mabutho said fencing of the Tshwaragano fields was crucial to protect crops from destruction by elephants, cattle and other animals that could damage the farming industry. The government, he said, wanted to revive the farming industry so that it could produce enough food through good harvest that would be sold in return for money.

“It is very important for farmers to seriously understand and take government initiatives like ISPAAD to empower themselves and their families,” he stressed.

He explained that government was using a lot of money to drive development programmes such as ISPAAD, as such he encouraged the cluster to use modern farming methods and plough seeds that were conducive to their environment like mealie meal.

Mr Mabutho advised members of the cluster to follow their constitution for direction and management, adding that apart from that, their cluster would encounter managerial problems. The cluster had about 64 people both from Gani and the surrounding settlements, he said, adding that the field stretches from three to five kilometers (km).

Furthermore, Mr Mabutho said that his department will monitor the progress of the project, noting that the community must be responsible for the management and maintenance of the fence.

“Commitment and dedication is crucial in this project and the construction of the fence is expected to take only three months to be completed before the ploughing season starts,” he said.

For her part, Ngamiland District crops production officer, Ms Agatha Molefe disclosed that the whole construction and materials of the fence has cost the department over P 300 000. Ms Molefe said 40 people already, including those in Ipelegeng programme, have been employed in the construction of the fence.

She explained that her department would look into the issue of a borehole provision to assist the farmers with water. She raised concern about the trees in the fields, saying that farmers must work very hard to remove them to make their work easier.

Tshwaragano cluster fencing chairperson, Mr Thivambo Mbambo hailed ISPAAAD and the government for the support, adding that their lives will be improved and poverty will be eradicated. A fence demonstration was done to equip the members with the relevant skills.

For her part, Ms Ntshwarisang Mmopi from the Okavango Member of Parliament (MP) Mr Bagalatia Arone’s office encouraged farmers to take government initiatives seriously to improve their lives and fight poverty. ENDS