Where to get funding and support as small Scale farmer in South Africa
1. Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development
This program offers grants to those who were formerly disadvantaged in order to help them acquire farmland. Those who want to farm can apply for an LRAD grant, but they must put up a minimum of R5 000 in cash or labor as a contribution – more if the grant is higher. Minimum and maximum grants range from R20 000 to R100,000.
Individuals and organizations alike are welcome to submit an application. Most of the time, parties already utilizing local government-owned communal land can apply for the program to purchase more land. There is a special place in this program for women, youth, and those with physical or mental disabilities.
There is a finite amount of water accessible for agriculture and farmers, thus efficient use of that water is imperative. Small-scale irrigation has the potential to have a significant impact on food security and poverty reduction. The revitalization of underutilized irrigation systems and the installation of new irrigation systems in locations with sufficient water supplies can help rural populations improve their standard of living.Small-scale gardeners, as well as subsistence farmers in both rural and urban locations, are eligible to apply for this programme.
Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 846 8569
3.Integrated Food Security and Nutrition Programme (IFSNP)
Agricultural assistance such as seedlings, equipment, fertilisers, and other supplies are made available to food-insecure households through this intergovernmental program. The goal is to provide people in need with the tools they need to grow their own food. Small-scale gardeners, as well as subsistence farmers in rural and urban areas, can apply.
4.Comprehennsive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP)
Many people who acquire land as a result of land and agrarian reform programs require assistance in order to make efficient use of their newfound land ownership. To promote and facilitate farming, this initiative provides assistance to landowners who were previously disadvantaged.
Priority areas for the CASP include the following six:
● The administration of information and technology
● Assistance in the form of technical and consulting services
● Developing marketing and commercial strategies
● The provision of training and the development of capacities
● Infrastructure and inputs for on- and off-farm use
● Support in the form of funds
Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 319 8495/7686/8244 More information on CASP
5.Micro-Agricultural Financial Institutions of South Africa (Mafisa)
Many new farmers are unable to obtain bank loans because they lack the necessary collateral and credit history that banks require. Mafisa was established to assist new farmers in obtaining loans of up to R100 000. It also facilitates access to a wide range of other financial services, such as savings, credit, and insurance, for beginning farmers. Loan recipients must demonstrate that they will be able to repay their debts. In order to do so, they will be required to submit a business plan.
Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 319 7295/7917
