M10 FARMING ENTERPRISE CELEBRATES TRANSFORMATIVE DEVELOPMENT WITH SAFDA AND DEPARTMENTAL SUPPORT
Nondumiso Mlondo
On a momentous occasion for the sugarcane farming community in KwaZulu-Natal, M10 Farming Enterprise marked the successful completion and handover of a transformative farm development project, facilitated by the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development.
Above, from left: Chief Director Mndaweni handing over the keys to Sammy Moodley of M10 farming enterprise.
This milestone, achieved under the diligent guidance of the South African Farmers Development Association (SAFDA) as the implementing agent, underscores a shared commitment to fostering farmer-driven partnerships aimed at transformation, development, and sustainability while bolstering the vitality of rural economies.
Located in the KwaDukuza Local Municipality under the iLembe District, M10 Farming Enterprise has been a steadfast participant in the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) since leasing the 323-hectare Farm Margaret in 2008. The enterprise, led by four dedicated family members and managed by Manival Munusamy Govender, has faced significant challenges, including severe droughts and rising operational costs. However, with this newly completed project, the farm is poised for a sustainable and prosperous future.
The development initiative, detailed in a comprehensive business plan prepared by Bulisa Ngubane in November 2022, addressed critical infrastructure and operational needs. Funding from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development enabled M10 Farming to acquire essential resources, including fertilisers and chemicals vital for ratoon maintenance, as well as the construction of a state-of-the-art farm workshop and living quarters for tractor drivers and cane cutters. Additional enhancements included robust perimeter fencing and the installation of a borehole to secure a reliable water source which is crucial for a farm operating under dryland conditions without sufficient natural irrigation.
Above: (1) Farming equipment provided by the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development to M10 Farming Enterprise 1. (2 ) Farm Workers living quarters. (3) Sammy Moodley from M10 Farming Enterprise with Dr Madlala and the officials from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development. (4) Farming equipment provided by the department of land reform and rural development to M10 Farming Enterprise 2. (5) Executive Chairman of SAFDA with M10 enterprise farm worker. (6) Farming equipment provided by the department of land reform and rural development to M10 Farming Enterprise 3.
Dr Siyabonga Madlala, Executive Chairman of SAFDA, attended the handover ceremony and expressed his admiration for the exceptional work accomplished. He particularly lauded M10 Farming for the construction of modern living quarters, which he described as a landmark achievement in restoring dignity to farm workers. “This development is not just about infrastructure; it’s about affirming the humanity and worth of those who labour on our farms,” remarked Dr Madlala. He added: “The state-of-the-art facilities provided here set a precedent for the respect and care that should be afforded to all farm workers across the industry. I congratulate M10 Farming for their vision and dedication to this cause.”
The project’s completion is a testament to SAFDA’s mission to empower farmers through strategic partnerships and practical support. Appointed as the implementing agent, SAFDA played a pivotal role in translating the business plan into actionable outcomes, ensuring that every element, from infrastructure to resource allocation aligned with the needs of M10 Farming and the broader objectives of rural development. Sammy Moodley, a key figure in the enterprise, expressed his profound gratitude to both SAFDA and the Department for their unwavering support. “This is a dream realized,” he said. “The assistance we’ve received has not only revitalized our operations but also uplifted the lives of our workers.”
As M10 Farming Enterprise embarks on this new chapter, the collaboration between SAFDA, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, and the Moodley family serves as a model for how targeted support can transform challenges into opportunities. Dr Madlala’s words at the handover resonate as a call to action for the industry: “Let this be a benchmark for dignity, sustainability, and progress in rural farming communities.” With the infrastructure now in place, M10 Farming is well-positioned to maximise yields and ensure long-term viability.