Rich in natural resources, the vast, arid landscape of the Northern Cape sets the tone for the province, with the economy being dominated by two principal sectors, namely agriculture and mining.
Agriculture is the biggest employer in the region, unsurprising when one considers that 98% of the land is for agricultural use with 2% of that being used for crop farming.
As a result the provincial government has made it a priority to ensure the sector continues to play a key role in the development of the Northern Cape economy, by contributing to GGP employment and income, as well increasing access to the previously disadvantaged.
The Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency is working to promote two new agriculture projects that have the ability to help grow the economy of the region:
Kai Garib Ostrich Project
The Kai Garib Ostrich project is situated 120km south of Upington, on a farm known as Weltevrede. The farm is the property of Kai Garib Local Municipality falling under the jurisdiction of Siyanda District Municipality.
The farm already has infrastructure valued at R500 000. The previous farmer had a captive export market in Europe and his operation was EUROGAP CERTIFIED. The farmer also used to produce meat and skin for the European markets.
The Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency is currently looking for an operating partner, or any interested Ostrich breeders, to assist with technical expertise.
Richterveld Dairy Project
The Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency has identified a restitution project in Alexandra Bay, which is situated about 80km north of Port Nolloth.
The land that has been identified for the dairy project is located on the banks of the Oranje River, and the project consists of 320 dairy cattle, dairy infrastructure and 350 hectares of irrigation
The Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency states that it is difficult for the community to make the project on their own, without the expertise of partners, and have indicated a willingness to work with the strategic/operating partners.
A potential operating partner must be able to venture or offer technical advise to the community as well as market for the product.
Images of the Richterveld
area on which the dairy farm will be situated
