Eastern Cape Group Farmers is spearheading an initiative to unite black farmers, specifically in the meat industry, to increase market access and improve economic equality. Despite owning significant numbers of cattle and sheep, black farmers in the province have struggled to reach the commercial market.

The group's chair, Vuyolwethu Silwana, pointed out missed opportunities for farmers to partner with major suppliers, such as Karan Beef, which requires 2,000 cattle weekly. Additionally, there was an agreement with Kenya to export 200 sheep per week, but local farmers were unable to meet the demand.

To address this, Eastern Cape Group Farmers is working to bring farmers together under one umbrella. The goal is to help them benefit from the economy equally, with plans to overcome the hesitation some farmers have shown towards collaboration.

Silwana highlighted a key project - the construction of an abattoir by the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR). This facility aims to enable farmers to sell their cattle at fair prices and increase market access.

The group is determined to bridge the gap and create more opportunities for black farmers in the meat industry. Silwana emphasized that many farmers have been receiving lower prices for their cattle from private abattoirs compared to the fair market value.

The new structure will also ensure better collaboration, information sharing, and access to government programs and private sector resources. Eastern Cape rural development and agrarian reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, and Chris Hani district mayor, Lusanda Sizani, could not attend a recent meeting due to an ANC lekgotla but showed their support in a letter.

Silwana also noted that the new structure is expected to improve efficiency, access to resources, and productivity, resulting in greater profitability for farmers.

Ayanda Ngqandu from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development expressed concern over past challenges that have prevented farmers from collaborating effectively. He cited under-utilized government resources, such as feedlots and grain silos, as examples of missed opportunities.

Through this collaborative approach, Eastern Cape Group Farmers aims to create lasting change and stability in the province's agricultural economy.