Agricultural irrigation projects expand in Lomati River Basin and Eastern Cape

Agricultural initiatives in the Lomati River Basin and the Eastern Cape are introducing new irrigation technologies to enhance food security and water efficiency.

In the Lomati River Basin, the Lomati Farm wise Smart Agriculture Project is implementing solar-powered pumping and drip irrigation for the Bambanani Farmers Association and the Tentele Make Farmers Association. Funded by the Global Environment Facility, the project aims to improve livelihoods and ecosystem resilience. Recent site visits highlighted the need for infrastructure maintenance, noting issues such as deteriorating water-delivery canals and land degradation.

In South Africa’s Eastern Cape, a multimillion rand investment has provided improved irrigation infrastructure to farmers in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality. This includes an irrigation system, storage, and fencing valued at R3.8 million for Vivi-Am Holdings, a youth-led vegetable production enterprise. The upgrades allow for extended growing seasons and increased production capacity, supporting local employment opportunities.