North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

16/06/2026

16/06/2026

50th Anniversary of the 1976 Youth Uprisings
Commemoration

15/06/2026

[WATCH]: MEC Madoda Sambatha is encouraging farmers across the North West Province to enter the South African Agricultural Awards (SAAA) 2026 and showcase their achievements, innovation, and contribution to the growth of agriculture.

Entries are now open: www.agriawards.co.za

Taung Agricultural College YOUFM 898 Farmers Review Africa National Department of Agriculture SABC News North West Department of Land Reform and Rural Development NORTH WEST Provincial Government Farmer's Weekly SA North West Provincial Legislature Agricultural Research Council AgriSETA

15/06/2026

Today, MEC Madoda Sambatha addressed farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and students during the South African Agricultural Awards (SAAA) City-to-City Nominations Tour held at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture.

The activation, hosted in partnership with AgriSETA and the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, aims to raise awareness about the awards programme and encourage participation from across the agricultural value chain.

In his address, MEC Sambatha encouraged farmers to enter the awards and use the platform to showcase their achievements, innovation, and contribution to the growth of the sector.

He emphasised the importance of recognising excellence in agriculture and celebrating individuals who are making a meaningful impact in food production, rural development, and economic growth.
The MEC also encouraged students from agricultural colleges to take advantage of opportunities presented through the awards programme and related initiatives.

He urged young people pursuing careers in agriculture to remain committed to their studies, embrace innovation, and position themselves as future leaders of the sector.
Also addressing the gathering were Ms Kubenokuthula Ndlovu from AgriSETA and Ms Ayanda Mnguni from the South African Agricultural Awards (SAAA), who provided information on the nomination process, participation requirements, and the various opportunities available through the programme.

Entries for the South African Agricultural Awards 2025 are now open. Farmers, agribusinesses, and eligible participants are encouraged to submit their entries and be recognised for their contribution to South African agriculture.
Enter now: www.agriawards.co.za

YOUFM 898 Taung Agricultural College Potchefstroom College Of Agriculture

15/06/2026

More than 772,352 animals vaccinated as North West intensifies Foot-and-Mouth Disease Response.

15/06/2026

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, together with the South African Agricultural Awards (SAAA) and AgriSETA, are currently at Potchefstroom College of Agriculture for the Nominations Tour City-by-City Activation, which is now underway.

The activation aims to raise awareness about the South African Agricultural Awards, encourage participation, and provide farmers and agricultural stakeholders with information on the nomination and entry process.

Entries for the 2026 South African Agricultural Awards are now OPEN!

Farmers of all levels, from emerging to commercial producers, are encouraged to enter and showcase their excellence, innovation, and contribution to South African agriculture.

The South African Agricultural Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership across farming, agribusiness, and culinary arts. In proud partnership with AgriSETA, the Awards honour outstanding contributions while creating opportunities for skills development, training, and mentorship, helping to build a stronger and more sustainable future for South African agriculture.

For more information and to submit your entry, visit: [www.agriawards.co.za](http://www.agriawards.co.za)

12/06/2026

MEC Madoda Sambatha has encouraged young people to embrace agriculture as a career and play a leading role in shaping the future of the sector.

He also emphasised the need to revive programmes that encourage youth participation in agriculture as part of ensuring succession in the industry. He noted that many farming enterprises collapse because they lack succession plans, making it critical for young people to step forward and take over to ensure the sustainability of agribusinesses.

Young people need to define their future in agriculture and explore opportunities across the entire agribusiness value chain, from production and processing to marketing and other support services.

12/06/2026

The Provincial Young Farmers Day is currently underway at Motse Morale Farm near Brits, where young farmers have gathered in large numbers to exhibit and sell their produce.

Various stakeholders, including the Land Bank, National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), Agricultural Research Council (ARC), North-West University and other partners, are showcasing opportunities and sharing valuable information on skills development, agricultural support programmes and funding models available to young people.

The event continues to highlight the importance of empowering the youth and creating sustainable opportunities in the agricultural sector.