Farmers and residents in Ward 8 of the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality are seeing support through the Eastern Cape Department of Agriculture’s LandCare Programme, which is targeting invasive cactus species and improving farming infrastructure in the area.

The Department recently conducted a project evaluation at Rietbron Commonage Farm, where the programme has been running since the 2024/25 financial year.

According to the Department, the project focuses on removing jointed cactus and other invasive plant species that damage grazing land and affect the quality of mohair produced by Angora goats — one of the area’s key agricultural activities.

The programme has also provided farming inputs, technical support, skills development, and green job opportunities aimed at supporting local farmers and improving land management practices.

Additional support is being provided through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), which is developing farm infrastructure including fencing, stock-water systems, and dipping facilities.

The initiative forms part of broader anti-poverty and food security efforts in the municipality, with the Department also supporting household food production, agricultural education, and community training programmes.

For rural farming communities across the Eastern Cape, invasive plant growth remains a major challenge because it reduces grazing capacity and increases pressure on already struggling livestock farmers.

Mohair production is an important economic activity in several parts of the province, particularly in arid and semi-arid farming regions where Angora goat farming supports household incomes and local employment.

While the Department did not provide figures on the number of beneficiaries or jobs created, the project highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen agricultural livelihoods in vulnerable rural communities.

The Department said Agricultural Advisor Ayanda Nyambali, from Extension and Advisory Services, has been involved in supporting Wards 1, 7 and 8 within the Dr Beyers Naudé Local Municipality.

The long-term impact of the project will likely depend on continued maintenance of grazing land, infrastructure support, and sustained assistance to local farmers.