Water Infrastructure Upgrades Transform Farming in North West Province

In a sweeping and much-needed intervention, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has successfully rolled out a series of targeted water infrastructure upgrades across several rural communities. This initiative has brought renewed hope and tangible benefits to farming households that have struggled for decades with erratic and insufficient access to water.

The improvements—implemented primarily in the Kagisano-Molopo and Greater Taung Local Municipalities—are part of the department’s overarching strategy to build climate resilience, boost rural economies, and ensure sustainable agricultural production in water-scarce regions.

Reviving Rural Agriculture Through Water Security

Over a dozen villages in the affected municipalities are now reaping the benefits of restored and newly developed water systems. These include the installation of windmills, submersible pumps, high-capacity storage tanks, and the drilling and equipping of new boreholes.

According to the department, these developments are vital to reversing the stagnation seen in livestock farming due to prolonged periods of water shortages. With consistent and reliable access to water, farmers can now confidently maintain and expand their herds without the looming threat of drought-induced losses.

Local Impact in Kagisano-Molopo

In Kagisano-Molopo, the intervention has breathed new life into communities such as Langpomp, Gamongalenyane 1, Maheng, Setabeng, and Matlhabatlhabe. These areas have seen the installation of new windmills, the rehabilitation of boreholes, and the construction of reservoirs that have significantly improved water delivery systems.

These infrastructure enhancements mean that communal farmers, who previously had to walk long distances or rely on erratic water deliveries, now have direct access to reliable water sources. This is especially critical for livestock care, where dehydration can rapidly lead to economic loss.

Infrastructure Success in Greater Taung

Similarly, in Greater Taung, eight villages—Comforthill, Choseng, Tlapeng, Fairview, Mogopela B, Tamasikwa, Maphoitsile, and Manthe—are already witnessing the benefits of the department's commitment. Boreholes in these areas have been upgraded, new pumps installed, and a robust reticulation system built. At the heart of this development is a newly constructed 60,000-litre zinc storage tank that ensures steady water flow to connected villages.

This improvement not only serves households and livestock owners but also strengthens the overall agricultural ecosystem, reducing the frequency and severity of livestock health problems linked to water scarcity.

A Farmer’s Perspective: A Game Changer

For farmers like Pucoe Oatlhotse from Kgomotso Village under the Baga Mothibi Tribal Authority, the transformation is already evident.

“We are truly encouraged by the progress we are seeing. Access to clean water is making it easier for us to care for our livestock. The department’s support has brought real change on the ground, and we are grateful,” said Oatlhotse.

His sentiment is shared widely across the villages, where farming activities are steadily recovering and beginning to thrive thanks to the consistent water supply.

Livestock Health and Efficiency Improvements

Beyond just water provision, the department has extended its support to improving animal health and management practices. Handling facilities have been installed alongside existing dipping tanks, making it safer and more efficient for farmers to conduct regular health inspections and manage disease control.

This infrastructure bolsters the broader goals of food security, animal welfare, and effective veterinary oversight, all crucial components in safeguarding and expanding rural livelihoods.

Strategic Vision from the MEC

Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha emphasized that these interventions mark a foundational step toward long-term rural resilience.

“For us, farmers are a priority. Without water, there is no farming, and without farming, there is no rural economy. What we have achieved in Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati is a clear example of how the government must respond to the needs of its people. We are not done; there are still areas in need, but this marks a firm beginning,” Sambatha said.

His remarks underscore the department’s long-term commitment to expanding these improvements across more districts and ensuring no community is left behind.

Looking Ahead: Expansion and Assessment

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has confirmed that additional areas across the province are currently being assessed for similar interventions. These assessments are based on data concerning water stress, agricultural dependence, and economic vulnerability.

With continued investment and a community-focused approach, the department hopes to replicate the success in Kagisano-Molopo and Greater Taung across all rural municipalities in the province.

This initiative represents a powerful model of how infrastructure investment, community involvement, and governmental leadership can come together to solve long-standing challenges in South Africa’s agricultural heartlands.