MPUMALANGA DARDLEA
T
he Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) has introduced the Smart Agriculture Boxes Project as part of its Climate Smart Agriculture Initiative, addressing pressing issues that require immediate intervention. The Project identifies key challenges such as food insecurity, poverty, unemployment, Climate Change impact on agriculture, and limited land and resources. These challenges significantly contribute to the socioeconomic difficulties faced by the province, necessitating innovative and sustainable solutions. As an integral part of the Department's farmers support programmes, the Agriculture Smart Box Project has been introduced to alleviate poverty and unemployment in rural communities within Mpumalanga. This initiative aims to empower local farmers with tools and practices that enhance agricultural productivity while promoting sustainability. Through the Agriculture Smart Box Project, the Department seeks to bring about positive change, fostering economic resilience and development in rural areas. The Smart Agriculture Box Project represents a ground-breaking solution for sustainable and resilient farming in Mpumalanga. Its water-efficient design, boasting a 28-liter reservoir with a selfwatering capability for 2-3 weeks, not only addresses the critical issue of water scarcity exacerbated by Climate Change, but also promotes efficient resource use. The dense planting system maximizes crop yields by optimizing space and suppressing weed growth, contributing to enhanced food security and increased income for participating households and farmers. The box’s mobility ensures adaptability to changing environmental conditions, providing flexibility for farmers to protect their crops or relocate them as needed. Constructed from recycled plastic treated with a UV stabilizer, the Smart Agriculture Box exemplifies sustainable resource management, promoting longevity and minimizing environmental impact. Its versatility in accommodating various crops empowers farmers to diversify their produce, exploring different
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Municipal Focus
SMART AGRICULTURE BOX TO ALLEVIATE POVERTY AND CHAMPION FOOD SECURITY market opportunities. Moreover, the educational aspect, facilitated by the Smart Agriculture Box App, serves as a catalyst for knowledge dissemination and empowerment, enabling individuals and communities to embrace climatesmart agriculture practices and achieve self-sufficiency in food production. In the development of an organic growing medium, the Department
collaborated with Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) participants at an Environmental Centre in Amsterdam in the Mkhondo Local Municipality. This medium, serving as a foundation for plant growth, ensured organic and sustainable farming practices. After the contract's expiration of the EPWP participants, the Department provided an opportunity for the EPWP participants to establish a cooperative. This cooperative now
