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Boost for black maize farmers

A NEW public-private partnership in yellow maize production between the SAB and KwaZulu-Natal department of agriculture, environment and rural development was launched in Bergville in the Uthukela district on Saturday.

The partnership, worth over R3 million, was formed to assist emerging farmers in the Uthukela district to become commercial maize producers.

SAB chief executive, Vincent Maphai, pictured, said the SAB had committed to buying 5 000 tons of yellow maize, free of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in the first year of the project and that the quantity would gradually increase over time.

"At least 1500 hectares of high potential land has been identified in the Ukhahlamba, Indaka and Umtshezi areas.

The maize production potential for these areas is estimated at 4 to 6 ton a hectare.

"Maize producers in the province have been battling to secure sustainable markets and the SAB market is a major boost for these emerging black farmers. At least 250 local farmers are set to benefit from this partnership."

Bergville farmer Elias Nkomo is thrilled by the partnership.

"It's very hard to be a farmer because you have issues with money and also the weather is often not on our side," he said.

Bergville resident Zodwa Dube said: "This kind of initiative will revive the farming spirit in the community."

MEC for agriculture, Environment and rural development Lydia Johnson said: "The department is assisting local farmers with financial support through the Comprehensive Agriculture Support Programme (CASP) as well as Mechanization Support Programme.

"While SAB sells alcoholic beverages, some of their products rely on agricultural crops like yellow maize.

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