Department of Agriculture Launches Smart Subsidy and Insurance Initiative to Boost Food Production
In a bid to enhance food production, the Department of Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition, through the Teyateyaneng Resource Centre, has launched an initiative aimed at sensitizing farmers about the Smart Subsidy and Insurance program. This new initiative, developed in collaboration with the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project (SADP) II, is designed to provide comprehensive support to farmers and strengthen their agricultural practices.
During a recent outreach session with farmers, Extension Officer Mr. Pule Makosholo explained the core components of the Smart Subsidy and Insurance initiative. He emphasized that this program is essentially a package that offers farmers all the necessary farming inputs at once, tailored to the size of the area they plan to plant. These inputs are carefully measured by the Department of Agriculture to ensure their effectiveness in boosting production.
Mr. Makosholo further clarified that, in addition to providing essential farming materials, the program also includes insurance coverage for farmers. However, the insurance covers only drought-related risks and applies exclusively to grain crops, excluding vegetables. This targeted insurance aims to safeguard farmers against the unpredictable nature of weather patterns, offering them a safety net during times of drought.
Before the subsidy and insurance funds are provided, farmers who sign up for the program will undergo soil analysis. Mr. Makosholo highlighted the use of advanced technology to assess the nutrient levels of the soil, ensuring that farmers are well-informed and equipped with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions about their farming practices.
The initiative is expected to improve the resilience of farmers, enhance food security, and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
