Land and agriculture

Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development

This programme provides grants to previously disadvantaged individuals to get land for agriculture. Applicants who want to farm may apply for an LRAD grant, but have to make a contribution, either in cash or in labour, to a minimum of R5 000 - more if the grant is larger. Grants vary from a minimum of R20 000 to a maximum of R100 000.

Individuals or groups may apply. In many cases, groups already using communal land owned by local authorities, can apply to the programme to buy additional land, Women, youth and the disabled in particular are welcome to apply.

Contact Agricultural Development: 012 319 8495
Contact Land Acquisition: 012 312 9600

Integrated Food Security and Nutrition Programme (IFSNP)

This inter-governmental programme provides relief to households affected by food security, in the form of agricultural help: seedlings, equipment, fertilisers, etc. The aim is to give beneficiaries the equipment they need to produce their own food. Groups or individuals who want to start a small-scale garden, and subsistence farmers in rural or urban areas, can apply.

Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 319 7331

Irrigation, Revitilisation and Development

Water available for agriculture and farmers is limited and good management practices are essential to make the most of the available water. Small-scale irrigation can play a major role in food security and poverty alleviation. The revitalisation of under-utilised irrigation schemes and the development of new irrigation schemes in areas where adequate water is available can contribute to enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.

Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 846 8569

Comprehennsive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP)

Many who acquire land through land and agrarian reform programmes need support to use it effectively. This programme offers support services to previously deisatvantaged land-owners to promote and facilitate farming. CASP has six priority areas:

  • Information and technology management
  • Technical and advisory assistance
  • Marketing and business development
  • Training and capacity- building
  • On/off farm infrastructure and product inputs
  • Financial support

Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 319 8495/7686/8244
More information on CASP

Micro-Agricultural Financial Institutions of South Africa (Mafisa)

Many emerging farmers are unable to borrow from banks because they do not have the collateral and credit record that banks require. Mafisa was started to assist emerging farmers to access loans of up to R100 000. It also helps emerging farmers to access a wide range of other financial services, such as savings, credit and insurance. Beneficiaries of loans must show that they will be able to repay loans. To do so, they will have to provide a business plan.

Contact the Department of Agriculture: 012 319 7295/7917

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