Sharing knowledge on the use and conservation of water for food production
Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network
The Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network is situated in the Fort Hare-Alice, Amathole Basin – Fort Cox, Keiskammahoek, Dimbaza, Xhukwane or in the Nkonkobe municipal area in the Eastern Cape. It is associated with the Training of Trainers course being implemented with Fort Cox Agricultural College as its hub.
There are partners from various different organisations and establishments:
The College aims to provide quality education and training in agriculture and forestry by engaging in research and community outreach. The students are aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs. The College has a Rural Development Centre which is involved in rural outreach and agricultural practices training in the form of short courses.
The University has a lot of history and aims to provide high quality education contributing to the advancement of knowledge and applying it to the scientific, technological and social economic development of the country. The Faculty of Science and Agriculture is involved in community engagement and rural development in agriculture.
The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR)
The DRDAR promote, support and coordinate rural development and agrarian reform interventions. The aim is to reduce poverty and underdevelopment through job creation, food security programmes and participation in development by all rural communities. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has national extension support services where extension and advisory services are available for the rural farmers. The extension role in South Africa is very important for farmers to gain new knowledge and information about different and efficient agriculture practices.
Nkonkobe Economic Development Agency
NEDA is located in Alice. The agency’s purpose is to support local economic development in the Nkonkobe municipal area through supporting and managing viable economic projects. One of the sectors NEDA focuses on is agriculture and so they are a partner in the learning network.
Dohne Agriculture Developmental Institute
Dohne is an agricultural research institute situated in Stutterheim. It is the only agricultural research institute in the Eastern Cape. It is a research and developmental institute that is inter-governmental, with four agricultural research sections, namely: analytical research, animal research, crop research and pasture research.
Farmers
The farmers in the area range from commercial to homestead food producers and everything in between. Their crops range from dairy to vegetable production. They have many interesting stories and experiences to share with the rest of the group.
If you are interested in becoming part of the Imvotho Bubomi Learning Network through the Fort Hare-Alice, Amathole Basin – Fort Cox, Keiskammahoek, Dimbaza, Xhukwane learning groups
or would like to set up a Learning Network in your area, please contact Amanzi for Food.