Kabe women receive farming tools to boost food security

By Bonolo Molatlhegi

Women in Kabe village, outside Mahikeng, received essential farming tools on Monday as part of a provincial initiative by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) aimed at strengthening household food security, creating livelihoods, and promoting self-reliance.

The handover, held at the Kabe Community Sports Ground, was led by MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Madoda Sambatha and attended by MEC for Social Development Susanna Basetsana Dantjie, Chair of Chairs Tebogo Modise, Kabe’s traditional leadership, and community members.

The programme equips women with practical tools, such as spades, forks, wheelbarrows, and nets, to enable sustainable food production, reduce dependency, and create opportunities for income generation. It also forms part of broader provincial efforts to place women at the centre of agricultural development.

One beneficiary, Keabetswe Methikga, said the support would significantly improve her household and community impact. “We have always loved working the land, but lack of resources often discouraged us. Now we can work the land properly, grow enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children. The nets will protect our gardens from birds, and the tools mean we can farm consistently rather than borrow or go without,” she said.

Sambatha described the initiative as more than a donation of equipment.

“This intervention is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. Supporting women in agriculture supports families, fights poverty, and strengthens food security. These women are not just beneficiaries; they are producers and partners in the development of our province,” he said.

Sambatha added that food insecurity and poverty expose communities, particularly women and children, to social challenges. “By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen the social fabric of our society. We will continue working with the Department of Social Development to ensure these projects are sustainable,” he said.

Kabe’s traditional leadership welcomed the initiative. Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “When our women are empowered to produce food, the entire village benefits. We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries and ensuring these tools are used as intended.”