The Sivusasizwe Agricultural Primary Co-Operative, located in Sawoti Village, KwaZulu-Natal, has made significant strides in food security, job creation, and sustainable community development. Established in 2017 by five founding members, the co-operative produces fresh vegetables for local communities and established markets. With a vision to improve access to vegetables, generate income, and utilize the area's fertile agricultural land, the co-operative has become a beacon of hope for the local community. The co-operative's efforts align with the theme of World Food Day, 'Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow,' which highlights the importance of practical innovation and resilient agricultural production.
The co-operative's journey has not been without challenges. The KwaZulu-Natal floods of 2022 caused extensive damage to its farming operation, destroying infrastructure and threatening livelihoods. Chairperson Thandi Shezi recalled the devastating situation, stating that the co-operative had to sell some properties to get back on its feet. Despite these setbacks, the co-operative resumed production and harvested green beans and spinach in December 2022. Their recovery demonstrates the determination of community-based organizations to produce food and protect livelihoods even in the face of climate-related disasters.
Support from the National Development Agency (NDA) has been instrumental in Sivusasizwe's expansion. The co-operative received grant funding of R272,405.10, primarily directed towards crop production. This funding enabled the co-operative to acquire a mobile water pump and engine, office equipment, and agricultural inputs. The improved pumping system increased its capacity to draw and distribute water, enabling the enterprise to expand production and increase employment from 12 to 27 jobs.
The co-operative's impact extends beyond vegetable production. It has created employment opportunities for residents, prioritizing the participation of women and young people. The farm also provides practical exposure to students participating in agricultural skills-development programs linked to Coastal College campuses. Students gain hands-on experience in activities such as planting and harvesting, contributing to the development of agricultural skills that can support the next generation of farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs.
Sivusasizwe's success is evident in its 2023 harvest of approximately 25,000 cabbages, which were sold through local and regional outlets. Cabbage remains one of the co-operative's main income-generating crops, alongside spinach, green beans, butternut, maize, and herbs. These products contribute to household food access while creating income for workers, co-operative members, and community-based resellers.
The co-operative's achievements demonstrate the importance of community-based organizations in addressing hunger, poverty, and unemployment. Rooted within the communities they serve, these organizations understand local needs, available resources, and the barriers that prevent people from participating meaningfully in the economy. The NDA's support has helped Sivusasizwe improve governance, mobilize resources, and establish partnerships that contribute to sustainable livelihoods and community development.
Looking ahead, Sivusasizwe plans to stabilize electricity capacity by obtaining a solar system, acquire refrigerated transport, and establish its own skills-development and learnership program. These ambitions could help the co-operative increase production, preserve and transport fresh produce, strengthen distribution, and provide more structured learning opportunities. As South Africa continues to confront food insecurity, poverty, and unemployment, Sivusasizwe offers a practical lesson in the importance of investing in community-based organizations.
Key points
- The Sivusasizwe Agricultural Primary Co-Operative has created employment opportunities for 27 people and produces a range of fresh vegetables for local communities and established markets.
- The co-operative received grant funding of R272,405.10 from the National Development Agency to support its agricultural production and expand its operations.
- Sivusasizwe harvested approximately 25,000 cabbages in 2023, contributing to household food access and creating income for workers, co-operative members, and community-based resellers.
