MPUMALANGA DARDLEA

SMART AGRICULTURE BOX TO ALLEVIATE POVERTY AND CHAMPION FOOD SECURITY

The 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 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 sells the organic medium to farmers, individuals, and the Department, not only empowering the community but also resulting in the employment of several individuals in a small town like Amsterdam, exemplifying the positive impact of this sustainable farming initiative.

Internationally, the project has received acclaim, securing the first runner-up position at the 9th African Continental Public Service Day and earning an invitation to the Asia Smart Farming & Food Security 2023 Exhibition & Conference in Malaysia.

Agricultural advisors across the province underwent specialized training to acquire essential skills related to the Smart Agriculture Boxes and the Organic Growing Medium Compost. This training was a crucial component in the lead-up to the launch and implementation of the Smart Agriculture Boxes, ensuring that advisors are proficient in imparting crucial insights on the proper utilization of the boxes to the beneficiaries.

The Smart Agriculture Box Project has significantly impacted communities, schools, farmers, churches and vulnerable households across the province, now extending its positive influence to Traditional Leaders as well. Noteworthy beneficiaries, including Marapyane Bakgatla Primary Coop, Siphumelele Secondary School, Kwaggafontein Fortune 40 Project, Mahandzeni Preschool, Sikhulangolwazi Drop-in Centre, Presbyterian Church in Matsulu A, and Assemblies of God in Elukwatini, have witnessed transformative outcomes.

Improved crop yields, enhanced food security, increased access to fresh produce, and valuable skills in sustainable agriculture highlight the positive influence of the Project. Churches, such as the Presbyterian Church and Assemblies of God, have become vital community hubs, addressing food insecurity and fostering resilience through the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. The Smart Agriculture Box Project has not only achieved its goals but has also become a catalyst for positive change and empowerment in Mpumalanga.

DARDLEA MEC Busisiwe Shiba, during the tabling of the 2023/24 Policy and Budget Vote, emphasized DARDLEA's commitment to providing support to land reform beneficiaries and vulnerable households, including mechanization, Smart Agriculture Boxes, pest-resistant inputs, extension services, and agroprocessing infrastructure, including public markets such as the Government Nutrition Programme.

On Mandela Day, 300 Smart Boxes were donated to Siphumelele Secondary School, accompanied by Seeds, Organic Growing Medium Compost and an Irrigation System. This substantial contribution has enabled the school to cultivate a diverse array of vegetables, including spinach, beetroot, and onions. With plans to expand the garden and sell the produce, the initiative aims to raise funds for the school. Notably, the greenhouse garden Project not only provided agricultural benefits but also created employment opportunities for local residents involved in its construction. On Monday, October 30, 2023, Minister Thoko Didiza and MEC Busisiwe Shiba visited the school to assess the impact of the Smart Box farming system.

Among the observed benefits is the enhancement of agriculture learning for students, enabling those studying agriculture to gain theoretical and practical knowledge. The school has experienced multiple successful harvests, establishing a market partnership with Spar. A portion of the harvested produce is contributing to the school's nutrition programme, highlighting the dual benefits of the Smart Box initiative: sustainable agriculture and direct support to the school community.

The Smart Agriculture Box Project in Mpumalanga represents a pioneering and holistic approach to address challenges in farming sustainability, water efficiency, and climate resilience. Its innovative features, from waterefficient design to versatile crop compatibility, showcase a commitment to fostering positive environmental and socioeconomic impacts. The project's recognition on the international stage reflects its transformative potential. As it continues to empower farmers, households, and communities, the Smart Agriculture Box stands as a beacon for sustainable agriculture, knowledge dissemination, and inclusive development. It is more than just a project; it serves as a gateway to a future marked by resilience and success in farming.