The Klein Karoo Agri Business Centre (KKABC), due to be launched soon, will help new producers to become successful and self-sustainable in the commercial farming sector. Land Bank has already earmarked funds for the settlement of at least ten new farmers in the region.
Says Dr Willem Burger, General Manager: Research and Development (Klein Karoo Group): "We have had quite a number of success stories from newcomers to the commercial farming sector over the past decade. However, some of these projects have also failed due to a lack of sufficient funding, proper training and mentorship to new entrants.
"The responsibility of the group as well as that of producers in the region lies in providing knowledge and infrastructure to implement change in the agricultural society. This is also in line with the government's aim to speed up the process of land reform and the KKABC will contribute positively to achieving this objective."
"The KKABC will mentor, support and lead individuals as well as groups and projects into the challenges of sustainable and independent ostrich and seed farming projects."
The KKABC is a project for new producers by existing producers and will be driven by producer organisations such as Agri Klein Karoo in conjunction with stakeholders ABSA and the Klein Karoo Group, which have done the initial funding, and the Land Bank.
According to Dr Burger, community leaders have welcomed the project. Communication with the labour force on farms is also increasing.