North West Agriculture MEC Endorses Agri-Preneurship Programme for Rural Youth

In a powerful step towards fostering youth inclusion and innovation in agriculture, North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, has thrown his full support behind a new smart farming initiative aimed at equipping rural youth with modern agricultural skills and digital competencies. The programme, launched on Friday, 20 June 2025, at Earth Hub Africa in Schaumburg near Skeerpoort, will empower 10 young agri-preneurs with technical knowledge, practical training, and economic opportunity.

The initiative is the result of a dynamic collaboration between Earth Hub Africa, the MTN SA Foundation, and Shell Downstream South Africa, underscoring the power of public-private partnerships in rural development and youth empowerment.

A Certificate, a Platform, a Path to Agricultural Innovation

At the heart of the programme is the National Certificate in Plant Production, which will be pursued by each of the selected participants. This qualification introduces them to advanced farming techniques, digital agriculture technologies, and environmentally sustainable practices—tools essential for thriving in the fast-evolving global food economy.

The programme not only provides access to land, infrastructure, and mentorship, but also integrates market access strategies to support long-term sustainability of youth-led agri-enterprises.

“It aligns with the Department’s vision of increasing youth participation in agriculture while promoting food security and economic self-sufficiency,” said MEC Sambatha.

Rural Development Through Innovation and Collaboration

The MEC praised Earth Hub Africa, MTN SA Foundation, and Shell SA for their leadership in rural community development. Speaking at the event, Sambatha highlighted how the initiative demonstrates the impact that cross-sector collaboration can have in uplifting under-resourced communities and stimulating localized economies through agriculture.

“This partnership reflects the kind of innovation and collaboration we need to truly uplift our people. These young agri-preneurs are the future of food security and economic resilience in our province,” Sambatha remarked.

He further stressed the North West provincial government’s commitment to supporting these agri-preneurs beyond the classroom. The department will provide continued assistance through access to agricultural extension services, linkages to government support programmes, and ongoing mentorship to ensure the long-term success of participants.

Scaling Up for Wider Impact

In an effort to broaden the programme’s reach, Sambatha called on MTN and Shell to consider expanding the initiative to other districts in the North West. The potential ripple effect of such programmes could help address broader socioeconomic challenges such as youth unemployment, food insecurity, and rural stagnation.

The programme’s current beneficiaries, drawn from Schaumburg and surrounding areas, represent a pilot group whose success could inspire similar interventions across South Africa.

Voices of Hope and Opportunity

For young participants like Jafta Lin Boya, the programme offers more than a certificate—it offers a future.

“We come from a place where access to resources is limited, but today we feel seen and empowered. It is an opportunity to change our lives and our communities through farming,” said Boya.

These testimonials reinforce the programme’s impact on both personal and community transformation.

Earth Hub Africa: A Platform for Youth in Agriculture

Earth Hub Africa has earned recognition as a grassroots agricultural platform that focuses on empowering smallholder farmers and youth agri-entrepreneurs. Through hands-on training, market connections, and mentorship, the hub plays a critical role in bridging the gap between traditional agriculture and digital, smart farming techniques.

Their strategic partnerships with entities like MTN SA Foundation—a known champion for digital inclusion—and Shell SA, which supports community investment, bring both technological and financial capital into rural development initiatives.

Looking Ahead: Youth as Catalysts for Agricultural Transformation

The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development believes that the long-term revitalization of South Africa’s agricultural economy lies in empowering its youth, especially in rural and peri-urban areas. The smart farming initiative in Schaumburg is an embodiment of that belief.

By integrating cutting-edge technology with practical farming experience, the programme doesn’t just equip youth with skills—it plants the seeds of entrepreneurship, independence, and sustainability.

The department encourages more corporate partners and municipalities to join the mission of turning rural South Africa into a hub of agricultural excellence and youth-driven innovation.