The Department of Agriculture’s Alfred Nzo District today hosted its annual Extension Advisory Services Awards recognizing the tireless efforts of extension officials who serve as the province’s frontline workers. These officials are dedicated to improving the lives of Eastern Cape farmers through innovative technologies.
These extension officials utilise technology, such as Survey 123 and farmer register systems, to deliver high-quality services to farmers. Each day they strive to support farmers by connecting them with external stakeholders for financial assistance and introducing them to improved farming methods.
The awards ceremony highlights the crucial role extension officials play in promoting agricultural development and food security in the province.
The Department of Agriculture in the Alfred Nzo District Municipality hosted their annual Extension Advisory Services Awards in recognition of work done by Extension officials as the foot soldiers of the Province as they are improving the lives of Eastern Cape farmers.
They are using the new technology of such as Survey 123 and farmer registers register systems when providing services to the farmers.
Furthermore, these officials support each other in improving the services of their district in order to reach the required targets from their district.
Dispite the financial challenges from government coffers, these officials try by all means to support farmers by exposing them with external stakeholders for financial assistance and exposing them to ways to improve their farming methods.
These awards are categories as follows :
Best Agricultural Advisor certificated
Best agricultural advisor candidate,
Best Technical support and best supervisor.
“As Extension officials let’s be more visible to farmers, without us, the farmers will struggle.
“The challenges will always be there but lets try find solutions and provide more interventions to our farmers. Let us not deem our lights but rather be proud of the work we are doing for the department and the Eastern Cape farmers, “ said Noluvuyo Nqeno Director Extension and Advisory Services.
The following are the winners:
Best Agricultural Advisor:
1. Ms. Nosipho Zungu
2. Mr. Sinethemba Nopulula
Best Agricultural Advisor Candidate:
1. Ms. Khomotjo Machidi.
2. Ms. Amahle Sogoni
Best Techical Support:
1. Mr. Abongile Tyeni.
2. Ms. Thanda Mthembu
Best Supervisor:
1. Mrs. Babalwa Makatisa.
For 2nd position Its was a tie between: Mr. Mandla Matheza and Mr. Mbulelo Ofisi