TO support the local farming sector, eThekwini Municipality has purchased tractors which emerging farmers can use for free. This forms part of efforts to address challenges that limit emerging farmers’ progress.
The free tractor hiring initiative is managed by the eThekwini Municipality’s Agro-Ecology Unit. Several co-operatives have benefitted from the free tractor hiring scheme already, especially during the crucial cropping season.
Local co-operatives are encouraged to make the most of this initiative particularly given the various vegetable planting seasons on the South African calendar.
Over and above the assistance with the tractor services, to help cultivate their land for planting, the Municipality provides farmers with seeds, fencing, equipment, a container (pack house) to store their tools, irrigation systems, as well as training and mentorship.
The tractors are kept at the Municipality’s agri-hubs which are located across the city. Bookings must be made in advance by contacting one of the following officials.
- Mariannridge Agro-Ecology Hub
Lungile Dladla, 2 Scorpio Place, Mariannridge
031 322 7510 /081 888 7164
Lungile.dladla@durban.gov.za - Newlands Agro-Ecology
Sindi Khanyi or John Ngubane, 71 John Dory Drive, Newlands
031 577 8051Â /073 861 0618
Sindi.khanyi@durban.gov.za / John.ngubane@durban.gov.za - Inchanga Agri Hub
Nomazotsho Nene, 100 Old Main Road, Inchanga
031 783 4130 / 083 513 6912
Nomazotsho.nene@durban.gov.za - Northdene Agro-Ecology Hub
(Head Office) Bheki Khoza, 2 Greenfield Road, Northdene
031 311 6278 / 083 388 2735
Bheki.khoza@durban.gov.za - Umbumbulu Agro-Ecology Hub
Nombuso Zama, 10 300002 Street, Umbumbulu
031 322 4491 /067 098 9442
Nombuso.zama@durban.gov.za - Hambanathi Agro-Ecology Hub
Allan Naidoo, 160 Hambanathi Road, oThongathi, Hambanathi
032 944 1425 / 083 454 9812
Allan.naidoo@durban.gov.za
