Annex 1
Narrative Interim Report
The report must describe in detail how the project has progressed and the results achieved so far, and must
describe how the project funds have been used for the planned activities. The total length should not exceed
15 pages.
BMZ Project number: 6815
Project country: South Africa
Project title: Community-Based Adaptation to Climate Change (CBCCA) to build resilience
Organisation: Mahlathini Development Foundation (MDF)
Project duration: 01.10.2022 bis 31.08.2025
Period: August-October 2024
1.General Information
The CbCCA project is based on working with Climate resilient Agriculture (CRA) learning groups of smallholder
participants. These groups are set up a at village level across three provinces: KZN, EC and Limpopo. They work
on an annual cyclical planning and review process for implementation of CRA practices (Field cropping,
homestead food production and livestock management) –which are supported through training, mentoring and
implementation support. The intention is to support both existing learning groups in the three provinces to
deepen their implementation and to initiate new learning groups.
Figure 1: Map of SODI-CbCCA villages across EC, KZN and Limpopo
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CRA learning group members alsoundertake a range of other associated activities according to their need,
meaning that not all groups undertake the same activities:
➢Setting up and running village savings and loan associations (VSLAs), with membership from the CRA
learning groups and beyond, for savings and small loans for consumption smoothing and productive
activities.
➢Enterprise development and local marketing committees and groups, mostly to run the joint monthly
produce markets in nearby towns, but also includes egg andbroiler production and sales, livestock
auctions and more formal market contracts.
➢Water access and management through water committees linked to local governance structures, for
planning and implementing integrated water management activities and
➢Livestock committees, for development of conservation agreements for rangeland management and
local livestock auctions.
Quarterly project reports outline the training, field-based activities undertaken with the CRA learning groups and
their progress related to economic empowerment (VSLAs, marketing etc.). Information on activities related to
the innovation and multistakeholderplatforms is alsotobe included in summary form.Integrated water and
natural resources management activities are more discreet innature and will be reported onasprogressis made.
This also applies to the development of evidence-based indicators and the monitoring and evaluation handbook
development.
1.1.Project Description / Project Objectives
The COVID-19 pandemic, global economic downturns and internal political and economic instability have
exacerbated the already significant negative impact of climate change on smallholder farmer communities in
South Africa. Unemployment is very high (60-80%), with very low incomes primarily through social grants (around
R2000/month per household of 4-5 members). Smallholders need to find ways to provide for a sustainable
livelihood for themselves through farming and resource use in their villages. The climate resilient agriculture
practices have been piloted and have been shown to significantly improve both livelihoods and social agency and
now needs to be deepened and expanded.
The project objectives and outputs are summarized in the small table below.
Overall objective
(impact)
Communities have improved their livelihoods and their capacity to adapt to climate change and
have strengthened their resilience climate change risks and shocks
Project
outputs/objectives
O1
Capacity is developed for creation of and strengthening institutional frameworks and
mechanisms for including proven multi-benefit approaches that promote collective action
and coherent Community based Climate Change Adaptation (CbCCA) implementation.
O2
The farmer level decision support system for implementation of CRA is upscaled in eastern
SA.
O3
Appropriate frameworks for monitoring and evaluation of environmental benefits and agro-
ecosystem resilience are developed at multiple scales
O4
Improvement of water and natural resources management and governance through
community ownership
1.2.Source of Information
Each activity set within the project has a focused monitoring and evaluation process, to encompass the range of
environmental, agricultural, economic and social indicators used for reporting. Monitoring forms include for
example the CCA baselines, crop and garden monitoring, poultry production monitoring and fodder
supplementation monitoring. Databases are collated for the monthly VSLA (village savings and loan associations)
records and monthly market stall sales and incomes. Seasonal reviews for each learning groups consist of focus
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group discussions and individual interviews. Resilience snapshots and participatory impact assessments provide
more summative evaluative content.
In addition, the provincial field team leaders (Betty Maimela and Mazwi Dlamini) providemonthlyreports on
training and implementation undertaken with the CRA learning groups. Photographs are included in these
summaries and attendance registers are available. All interns are expected to provide monthly field work reports
(for SODI – Sphumelelo Mbhele) and reports for events, workshops and meetings are submitted.
Erna Kruger uses these reports and databases to compile the SODI quarterly reports for the organization.
Financial reports re compiled jointly by Erna Kruger and Sarika Ramsewak.
2.Project Status
Overall Objective (Impact): Communities are empowered to adapt to climate change and their resilience is
strengthened.
Project Goals
(Output)
Indicators
Base value
(quantitative &
qualitative)
Equivalent to
proposal
Target value
(Quantitative &
qualitative)
Equivalent to proposal
Achievements
(quantitative & qualitative)
1. Communities of Practice
(CoP)are established at
different levels and practices
for climate-resilient
agriculture are applied
sustainably.
1.1 Learning groups
(18) at localvillage
levelhave gained
initial experience with
approaches to
sustainable and
climate-resilient
agriculture.
1.1 CoPat localand regional
levelare implemented and
operational:
- 27 CoP / Learning groups for
climate-resilient agriculture
are established at village level
for community-based climate
change adaptation (CbCCA)
26 CoPs of which 8 are new.
-Mahhehle and Mariathal(SKZN) and
Sophaya and Madeira(Limpopo),
eMadakaneni and eMahlathini(Bergville),
Nchodu and Ned (Eastern Cape)
4 regional CoPs
Project Objective
(Outcome):
Indicator
Base value
(quantitative & qualitative)
Equivalent to proposal
Target value
(Quantitative & qualitative)
Equivalent to proposal
Achievements
(quantitative & qualitative)
Smallholder families in 3
provinces in South Africa
apply climate-adapted
agricultural practices and
diversify their income
opportunities in order to
stabilize food security in
the long term.
As part of an MDF pilot
project, 345 smallholder
farmers have gained
initial experience with
localagricultural
practices for climate
change adaptation. There
is currently no coherent
regional or local system
for climate-adapted
agriculture by
smallholder farmers.
So far, 9 community-
based village savings and
loan associations have
been established by MDF
2,625beneficiaries of
smallholder farming
families and 75
stakeholders in 3 provinces
are organized in
Communities of Practice
(CoP) and implement at
least 3 practices for
climate-adapted
agriculture according to
developed standards.
18 villages are organized by
the project in their own
village savings groups
249 participants, of whom 107
are in new learning groups.
(1 424 beneficiaries)
3 practices
20 stakeholders: across meso
and macro level CoPs
18 VSLAs of which 5 are new
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1.2 Currently,
smallholders are
supported by 2
government
organisations (ROs)
and 2 non-
governmental
organisations (NGOs)
- 3 regional CoP with
representatives fromthe
local CoP are established in
clustersas innovation
platforms for exchange,
planning and development
- 3 regional multi-stakeholder
platforms (ROs and NGOs) for
strategy development, policy
interactions, coherent
planning and awareness
raising are established
1.2 In the project regions, 6
ROs and 6 NGOs support
smallholder farmers through
learning and financing
opportunities. From planning
to implementation, they are
involved in community-based
adaptation to climate change
activities.
-Conservation Agriculture: Farmers’ Open
day Bgvl(5 villages Bgvl, 3 villages Midlands)-
existing (in association with ASSET Research)
-Mametja-SekororoParticipatory guarantee
system (3 villages) – existing with SAOSO
- Bgvl marketing cluster (5 villages)- newly
established
-Ozwathini: Calf rearing group (5 villages)-
newly established
4 multistakeholder platforms
- uThukela catchment partnership (Northern
Drakensberg Collaborative) -newly
established catchment stewardship with
WWF (quarterly meetings)
- Adaptation network –national network-
member –in capacity development working
group with Flanders Government (3-4
meetings/year)
-PGS SA –Organic participatory guarantee
system South Africa – South African Organic
Sector Organisation (2 meetings)
-Conservation Agriculture forum –national
(1 per annum)
6 NGOs: Institute of Natural Resources
(KZN), Association for Water andRural
Development (Limpopo), Environmental and
Social Solutions (Eastern Cape),Lima Rural
Development Foundation (KZN), Sociotech
(Gauteng), Wildlands Conservation Trust
(KZN)
3 ROs:
University of KwaZulu Natal (learning and
funding in socio ecological mapping and
adaptive planning),
World Wildlife Fund -WWF(learning and
funding support in water stewardship in
Bergville KZN),
Water Research Commission- WRC (learning
and funding support in all sites and including
also Giyani in Limpopo –through
dissemination of farmer decision support
project
2. A decision support tool
that takes into account
climate-resilient
agricultural practices will
be furtherdeveloped and
applied by smallholder
farmers.
2.1 There are no
specific criteria for
the local
assessment of
climate-resilient
production
systems.
2.2 So far, there are
no standardized
and target group-
oriented
approaches for
climate-resilient
agriculture for the
project regions.
2.3 120 smallholder
farmers have
developed an
understanding of
2.1 Indicators for
monitoring and evaluating
the impact of specific
agricultural practices for
adaptation to climate
change have been
identified together with
smallholder farmers.
2.2. A handbook has been
developed and made
available as a standard
framework for use as
"open source" for users at
various levels (in digital
and printed form).
2.3 Atotalof 300
smallholder farmers
independently use the
decision support tool for
climate-resilient
-MoU development with PMERL specialist
Karen Kotschy. Review of indicators and
resilience snapshots initiated.
- Livelihoods surveys designed and
administered. (Nqe Dlamini) –research into
VSLA contribution to livelihoods –to feed
into the overall M&E framework–to develop
best bet indicator set
-Not done yet – to be initiated in 2024
524 smallholder farmersofwhom 173 are
in new learning groups have used the DSS to
implement practices and review and plan
their activities –facilitated but not
independent
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how to use a
decision support
tool for climate-
resilient farming
practices
agricultural practices to
implement community-
based adaptation to
climate change
3. Community-based
water management will be
institutionalised and
sustainably improved.
3.1 At municipal
level, there are
insufficiently
functioning
structures for
sustainable water
management.
3.2 Communities
have only limited
access to water
3.1. Six communities have
been institutionalized and
have a sustainable
structure (e.g. Committee
on Water Management)
3.2 Three community-
based approaches to
sustainable water
management have been
developed.
5 communities:Ezibomvini (9), Vimbukhalo
(35), Stulwane(87) (Bergville), Nkau (18),
Ned (50) (Eastern Cape) have been
institutionalized, sustainable structures in 2
villages only (Constitutions, committee, do
have meetings, problem solving, or dealwith
maintenance issues)
3 Community-based approaches: Limpopo
(Turkey, Sedawa), Limpopo (Giyani) and
Bergville (Stulwane, Ezibomvini
Vimbukhalo)… in association with WRC –
approaches have been outlined and
proposed- working with water institutions to
get some recognition. –policy and strategy
development at regional and national level.
2.1.Explanations in the event of deviations from planning
Issues:Limpopo, Matatiele – drought- major water shortages -zero implementation
Fodder supplementation in winter:……
2.2.Status of implementation
The table below is taken from the project agreement. A column has been included on the right in Table 1 below,
outlining the quantities and activities involved for greater clarity.
Table 1: SODI high level work plan and budgeting per activity
SODI Work plan and Budgeting
Measures& Activities
2022
2023
2024
2025
Activitties and quantities
1. Implementation of Communities of Practice (CoP)
Introductory workshops for learning
groups (LG) at village level in 3
provinces
x
x
x
x
9X 1day intro meetings
LG operation; Roles, responsibilities,
visions and planning: Workshops for 9
LGs in 3 provinces.
x
x
x
x
9x1 day visioning and action
plans
Training on capacity development for
climate-resilient production systems
x
x
x
x
x
x
3x1day training in CRA for 9
groups (R17 500/month)
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Cyclical implementation of the LG at
village level: implementation and
mentoring for climate-adapted
agriculture for 27 learning groups at
village level; development of local
marketing initiatives (3) and local food
security initiatives (creation of value
chains, seed banks, etc.); Community-
based management measures for
natural resources
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
27 Learning groups in total - 9 per
province (3 new).
(67 days@R200/day, thus
10days/ LF/monthx6-7LFs (R13
551/month)
Entrepreneurial support for food
security: villagesavings and loan
associations aswell as local marketing
support and development
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Printing of savings books (Zulu,
Pedi), 24 days@R200/day, thus
4days/LF/monthx6 LFs and/or
paying for marketing costs (R7
968/month)
Cyclical implementation of innovation
platforms and multi-stakeholder
networks; Implementation and
capacity building for innovation (3) and
multi-stakeholder platforms (3);
Meetings and exchange visits
x
x
x
x
1-2 events/year: farmers day, x
visit, Multi stakeholder meeting,
(R8 400/event)
2. Development of an M&E toolbox and a manual
Development of M&E tools and
indicators
x
x
x
x
Materials for M&E, Software fore
surveys (R19 460/year)
Development of the Handbook on
Community-Based Adaptation to
Climate Change
x
x
x
Regular M&E of MDF together with
smallholders
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Seasonal evaluation by learning groups
at village level
x
x
x
x
x
x
36 Resilience snapshots per year
(min)
Participatory assessments improved
climate resilience for a selection of
village-level learning groups
x
x
x
x
x
x
3 PIA's per year (Min)
3. Sustainable water management
Establishment and implementation of
institutional structures such as water
management committees
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Development of three concepts for
sustainable access to water
x
x
x
x
x
Investment
2022
2023
2024
Amount per person
Tunnels
R5 463,00
5
35
30
Poultry
R2 021,00
10
45
45
Seed (CA, veg) and poultry feed
R1 815,00
10
45
45
To further outline the activites, annual tragets and actuals have been outlined in Table 2.This table will be
updated quartely.
Table 2: Targets and actuals for project activities: July 2024
Target
Actual
Target
Actual
Target
Actual
Target
Actual
2022
2022
2023
2023
2024
2024
2025
2025
No CCA Intro w/s
2
2
5
5
2
2
No CCA Planning
w/s
2
2
5
5
2
2
Training days
(demos)
6
10
12
22
12
12
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No of LGs
18
23
23
25
27
26
27
No of participants -
monitoring
108
220
108
109
108
Platforms (3 Ips, 3
Multi
stakeholders)
2
2
6
6
6
4
6
Cross visits
3
2
No CCA
prioritization
planning sessions
2
8
8
8
6
18
No CCA review
sessions
2
12
8
8
8
6
18
No CCAre-planning
sessions
2
12
8
7
8
5
18
VSLAs (360
participants,18
VSLAS)
18
18
18
18
18
Water access
scenarios (min 2)
1
4
1
1:Gobizembe (Midlands)
1
Livestock
agreements (Min
3)
1
1:Ozwathini
1
1-Willows (Limpopo)
1
Local facilitator
days (6-9), total
114 days each
38
Isaac Malatji
Phumla
Nyembezi
Jerida Popela
38
38 Limpopo:I Malatji, J
Poplea, M Mogofe, P
Thobejane,
38
Tunnels
5
35
40
30
27
Poultry
10
45
28 broilers,
17 layers
45
71 Boschvelders- EC (26),
Bgvl(11), Limpopo (22),
Midlands (12)
Seed (CA, veg),
poultry feed
10
45
Seed –50
(seed/seedlin
gs vegetable
production)
Poultry feed -
45
45
Vegetable Seed –160 –
Vegetable Seed –Limpopo
(180), Matatiele (107),
Midlands (100)
Poultry feed _71
This information is further outlined according to the measures and activities, with dates and descriptions of
activities provided in Table 3. Again, this table is to be updated quarterly.
Table 3: Description of measures and activites with dates and areas outlined: Nov 2023-Oct2024
Please add specific activites with dates and no of participants in the relevant activity columns
Description
Date
Activity
Establishing learning groups at
village level
2022/11/25, 12/09
2022/11/15, 11/29,
2023/02/07
2023/02/09
2023/01/18
2023/03/27
2023/06/15, 07/07
Limpopo: Sophaya
SKZN: Mahhehle -CCA workshop x 2 days,
Bergville: Eqeleni
EC: Ned, Nkau
Limpopo: Madeira
KZN Midlands: Ndlaveleni, Montobello, Noodsberg, Inkuleleko primary
school
Training and mentoring for
climate resilient agriculture
2022/12/02
2022/10/26
2022/10/08-14
2022/11/23,24,29
2022/02/10
2022/02/27, 03/28
2022/03/08, 03/17,
03/28
2022/03/15
2023/03/07,08
2023/03/29,30
2023/03/24,27,30
2023/04/, 2023/05,
2023/06
Midlands: Ozwathini contouring workshop SKZN: Mahhehle – tower
gardens
EC-Matatiele: Drip irrigation workshops in 5 villages
SKZN: CA demonstration workshops in 3 villages
SKZN:Plainhill Drip irrigation training
Limpopo: Sofaya trench beds
SKZN: Mahhehle tower gardens, poultry production, trench beds
SKZN: Mariathal gardens and experimentation
Bgvl: Madakaneni, Mahlathini – gardening training
EC: Ned, Nchodu poultry production
EC: Nec, Nchodu, Mzongwana- Pest and disease control
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2023/04/21,25, 05/26,
06/08
2023/04/19,20
2023/06/22
2023/08/07,08,10
2023/09/19
2023/10/16-19
2023/11/13-17
2023/12/04
2023/12/14
2024/02/23
2024/03/22
2024/05/28
Limpopo and KZN: trench bed training with assembling of tunnels for 45
households across 8 villages, including distribution ofseedlings, mixed
cropping and mulching learning inputs and drip irrigation
Limpopo: Willows, Sedawa, Mametja Sophaya. Bergville-Matwetha,
Emadakaneni – Natural Pest and Disease control
Bergville, SKZN:Poultryproduction: eMadakaeneni, Mjwetha, Mariathal,
Mahhehle, Centocow
EC: Ned, Nkau, Rashule, Nchodu- Soil and water conservation
Matatiele: Multipurpose chicken production and cage construction
(Ned(13), Rashule(22), Nchodu(23)
Matatiele: Nchodu -Value Adding training (32)
Limpopo: Boschvelder feeding and management training x 5 villages (50
participants)
Limpopo (30): CA demonstrations and farmer levelexperimentation:
intercropping cover crops
-Midlands: Gobizembe Youth group- seedling production training
-Limpopo: Sofaya(10) , Madeira and Willows (16) CA training and demos
-Limpopo: advanced nutrition workshop x 5 villages
-SKZN: gardening refresher workshops (Centocow, Mahhehle, Mariathal,
Ngongonini)
-Matatiele (EC) nutrition workshops x 4 villages
04/07/2024
05/07/2024
08/07/2024
10/07/2024
16/08/2024
11/09/2024
25/09/2024
Poultry training-Ndlaveleni
VSLA meeting+ delivery of boschvelders-Ozwathini
Calf rearing meeting (farmer centre finalization)-Ozwathini
Progress meeting-Gobizembe
Seedling production Youth group, Gobizembe
Pest and disease training Mayizekanye
Seedling production training Ozwathini
Cyclical implementation
through mentoring for capacity
development for LG at local
level
2022/08/16,17,18,19,30
2022/10/16
2022/11/21-24
2023/01/24-30
ONGOING
2023/10/03-06
2023/11/05-12/15
2023/11/30-2024/02/28
2024/ 03/ 30
2024/07/08
CCA review and planning workshops
-Bergville: CA review and planning (5)
-Midlands: CA review and planning (3)
-Limpopo: CCA review and planning (4)
CCA prioritization of practices
-Matatiele: 5 villages (Ned, Nchodu, Rahsule, Nkau, Mzongwana
-All areas: garden monitoring, poultry support, tunnel and drip kit
installations, VSLAs monthly meetings, CA production and monitoring
KZN-Bergville Boschvelder chicken delivery and maintenance mentoring
for 45 participants
KZN: Bergville_CA farmer experimentation planting for 124 participants,
incl cover crops awa collaboration with Forge Agri to Fodder Beet trials
and Zylem SA for new Maize variety trials
Midlands: Seedling nursery project initiation for youth group in
Gobizembe (11 members)
-KZN,EC and Limpopo –2ndround micro tunnelintroduction and
deliveries (x30 tunnels)
-KZN ,EC and Limpopo- 2nd round of multipurpose chicken delivery,
training and mentoring, including introduction of incubatorsfor local
breeding
11/07/2024
16/07/2024
17/07/2024
31/07/2024
23/08/2024
26/08/2024
14/10/2024
-VSLA meeting- Ozwathini
PIA meeting-Ozwathini
Purchasing and decanting of farmer centre stock-Ozwathini
Monitoring of tower gardens and chickens in Ndlaveleni
Nursery monitoring-Gobizembe
Purchasing and decanting of farmer centre stock
Purchasing of farmer centre stock and decanting
Ongoing - Monthly
Jan-December 2023
July-Sept 2023
Ongoing- Monthly
Market days: monthly farmers markets
-Midlands: Bamshela (Ozwathini)
-SKZN: Creighton (Centocow)
-Ubuhlebezwe LED Ixopo flea market
- Bergville: Bergville town
Market exploration workshops
-Midlands: Mayizekanye, Gobizembe
-EC_Ned-Nchodu market day in Matatiele
-SKZN: Mariathal
PGS follow-up w/s Limpopo
SKZN: Mahhehle
VSLA meetings and share outs
-Bergville (18)
-SKZN: Ngongonini (2), Centocow (4)
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April-June 2024
May-July 2024
-Midlands: Ozwathini (6)
Limpopo: (7)
-Youth Dialogues – Limpopo (Sedawa, Turkey, Willows, Madeira)
-Income diversification individual interviews - all areas (x12)
Income diversification and
economic empowerment of
local farmers (LG at local level)
Ongoing - Monthly
July-October 2024
02/08/2024
03/09/2024
Ongoing- Monthly
July-Oct 2024
12/08/2024 and
07/10/2024
Market days: monthly farmers markets
-Midlands: Bamshela (Ozwathini)
-Ozwathini Market Day
-Ozwathini Matket day
VSLA meetings and share outs
-Savings meetings Ozwathini (7)
-Share out meetings Ozwathini (1)
Farmer centre meetings – Ozwathini Midlands
Implementation and capacity
development for innovation (3)
and multi-stakeholder platforms
(3)
2022/11/18
2022/11/10
2022/12/01
2023/02/23
2023/02/28
2023/03/08,09
2023/03/89,29,
May-July 2023
2023/03/30, 06/02
2023/04/26
2023/05/09
2023/07/10-15
2023/08/18
2023/08/29
2023/08/30
2023/09/04
2023/09/08
2023/09/13
2023/09/22-24
2023/08/23, and 09/27
2023/07-12
2024/03/12,20
2024/07/08-12
2024/08/07
2024/08/08
-SKZN: Centocow P&Dcontrol cross visit and learning workshop
-uThukela water source forum: Visioning and action planning – Bergville
-Adaptation Network AGM
-Regenerative Agric farmers’ day in Bergville incl Assetresearch,
uThukela Water Source Forum, uThukela Development Agency
-Adaptation Network: CCA financing dialogue
-SANBI_gender mainstreaming dialogue
-WRC-ESS: Bglv Ezibomvini, Stulwane –resource management mapping
and planning
Bergillve:Stulwnae weekly community resource management workdays
-Okahlamba LED forum
-Farmers Xvisit between Bulwer (supported bythe INR0 and Bergville
around CRA, fodder and restoration
-PGS-SA: market training input: Online training Session 5
-Giyani Local Scale Climate resilience Project: Introduction of CCA model
and local water governance options.
-World Vision: CCA workshops for women cooperatives and LED project
(60 participants)
-Giyani Climate resilience project: Input into WRC reference group
meeting
-KZN DARD_ Okahlamba Agricultural Show: display and talk
ACDI: Dialogue on community adaptation and resilience (Stellenbosch)
Food systems article for newsletter
WWF-Business Network meeting (SAPPI Durban)- presentation
Joint Bergville learning group local marketing review session
Gcumisa_multistakeholder innovation meeting –with the INR, ~60
participants (value adding, stokvels and local marketing
Food systems dialogue: online event
Uthukela water source forum: Core team meeting and Multistakeholder
field visit around community resource conservation in Stulwane (Bgvl)
-LIMA -Social Employment Fund: Training for work teams and employed
youthin nutrition, value adding, climate change adaptation and
agroecological gardening practices including soil and water conservation
in 7 areas: Zululand, SKZN, Lichtenburg, Sekororo, Musina and Blouberg
(140 participants trained).
Northern Drakensberg collaborative (NDC) multistakeholder meeting in
Bergville (55 participants)
Adaptation network (AN) –colloquium CT- vulnerability assessments
and MERL for CCA
AN_SANBI EbAfarm –Global Climate Fund proposal discussion (24
participants)
NDC -Farmers xvisit from Hlatikhulu to Bergville-Endangered wildlife
Trust, WWF, SEAON, INR (45 participants)
Indicator development for
evidence-basedindicators, M&E
and handbook development
2023/01/30- 02/03
2023/02/02
2023/01/18
2023/01/18
Limpopo: Focus Group discussions for VSLA and microfinance for the
rural poor x 3 (Turkey, Worcester, Santeng)
Garden monitoring:
-SKZN: Plainhill
-EC: 5 villages
CA monitoring
-EC:5 villages
Project no 2116ZA311
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2023/02/20
March-May 2023
June 2023
2023/10/16-20, 11/13-
16
2024/02/26
May-July 2024
31/05/2024, 07, 12, 18
/07/2024
31/07/2024
-KZN: Bergville -30, Midlands 15, SKZN 15
-All areas: Poultry production list
-All areas: Livelihoods survey for farmgate sales and asset accumulation
-M&E resilience indicator development team meeting and process with
Karen Kotschy
-Design of framework
-Development of individual interviews and Participatory impact
assessment outlines for testing. Interviewing of 120 participants across
KZN,EC and Limpopo and running of 10 PIA workshops
- Initiate development of analysis platformand dashboards for Climate
resilience impact assessments
- Garden Monitoring Ndlaveleni
Implementation of sustainable
water management
2023/01/03-02/03
2023/03/07
2023/03/25, 06/15
2023/04/25, 06/01,02,
06/14.
2023/07/26-28,
09/14,10/09-14, 11/06-
10, 12/05-15,
2024/01/21-02/02
Ongoing
KZN:Bergville: Stulwane –Conflict man and upgrading spring protection.
EC: Nkau: Water walk and meetings for spring protection and
reticulation.
KZN:Bgvl Stulwane_ Engineer visits (Alain Marechal) for scenario
development and follow up planning meetings with community.Set up
committee, work parties and start on quotes and budget outline
KZN: Bgvl Vimbukhalo: Governance of communal borehole water supply
KZN:Bgvl Stulwane_ Engineer visits (Alain Marechal) for scenario
development and follow up planning meetings with community.Set up
committee, work parties and start on quotes and budget outline. Work
on scheme initiated. Final implementation of scheme.
Gobizembe water access discussions
Organisational & capacity
development
2022/11/17
2022/12/05
2023/02/13
2023/02/09, 02/16
2023/03/06
2023/03/13
2023/04/17
2023/05/26
2023/06/12
2023/07/04
2023/10/09
2023/10/16
2023/10/17
2024/02/26 – ONGOING
2024/10/24
-MDF AGM and organisational capacity development workshop
-Mentoring and planning with new finance officer to implement SODI
financial reporting system
- Internal short learning event for rainfall and runoff results, as well as
soil fertility and Organic carbon
- Mentoring inCCAworkshop implementation. Temakholo from
Midlands assisted Bergville team
-Team session on gender mainstreaming
- UKZN- Ecological mapping and use of resource planning – Bgvl team
-VSLAs review and discussion re group based rules, BLF updates
- Nutrient analysis for livestock fodder options: facilitated by Brigid Letty
from the INR
-Small business development support planning and Livelihoods survey
-MDF AGM and organisational capacity development workshop
Conservation agriculture participatory researchoutcomes and
presentation for CA forum with interns and staff
-Training plan development with interns
-M&E frameworks discussion with Karen Kotschy and team members
-Financial team: Introduction to online Sage platform
- First Aid training for 6 staff members
NOTE: Temakholo Mathebula has registered for an M.Phil at University ofWestern Cape (Jan2024). Three interns
(Sphume Mbhele, Hlengiwe Hlongwane and Nqobile Mbokazi) are in the process of completing a postgraduate
certificate in Water resources management and training through Rhodes University -Amanzi for Food
programme.
Below short narrative summaries are provided for some of the activities undertaken.
Written by Temakholo Mathebula and Noxolo Sibiya
1.2.2 CCA training: learning and demonstrations
Trainings undertaken between July 2024to October 2024 include the following:
Project no 2116ZA311
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Area
Villages
Dates
Themes
No of
participants
Midlands
Ozwathini,
Gobizembe,
Mayizekanye,
Ndlaveleni
04/07/2024
(postponed)
08/07/2024
10/07/2024
16/07/2024
Poultry training
Calf rearing meeting (farmer centre finalization)
Progress meeting
PIA meeting
6, 13, 15
13, 16
Midlands
Ozwathini
05/07/2024
11/07/2024
VSLA meeting+ delivery of boschvelders
VSLA meeting
18,13
Midlands
Ozwathini,
Gobizembe,
Mayizekanye
07/08/2024
12/08/2024
16/08/2024
20/08/2024
23/08/2024
28/08/2024
Meeting with youth group
Meeting with youth group
Seedling production
Progress meeting in Mayizekanye + Boschvelder
deliveries
Prolinova meeting- presentations of innovations
6, 3, 5
About 15-20,
2,
Midlands
Gobizembe,
Ndlaveleni
26/08/2024
04/09/2024
31/07/2024
Nursery monitoring
Gobizembe boschvelder monitoring
Monitoring of nursery, tower gardens, and
boschvelder
5, 2
5,
households,
13
Midlands
Gobizembe
08/08/2024
Cross visit to Bergville with gobizembe farmers
3
Midlands
Ozwathini
17/07/2024
02/08/2024
14/08/2024
30/08/2024
03/09/2024
Purchasing and decanting of farmer centre stock
Market Day
Farmer centre meeting + savings Purchasing and
decanting of farmer centre stock
Market day
5, 4, 10 & 18,
15, 3
Midlands
Mayizekanye
11/09/2024
Pest and disease training
20
Midlands
Ozwathini,
Gobizembe
Mayizekanye
06/09/2024
13/09/2024
23/09/2024
25/09/2024
Vsla meeting
Prolinova committee meeting
Farmer centre meeting with Bab Dlamini
Seedling production training (postponed)
18, , 9, 8
EC,
Matatiele
Nchodu, Ned,
Rhashule
07/06/2024
Tunnel x 14 delivery
Limpopo
Turkey
05/07/2024
VSLA share-outs, two groups
19, 19
EC,
Matatiele
Nchodu
11/07/2024
VSLA training workshop
19
Limpopo
Madeira
07/08/2024
VSLA share-out
19
Limpopo
The Willows,
Madeira, Turkey
and Worcester,
Mulalani
13/08/2024,
14/08/2024,
15/08/2024,
16/08/2024
Livestock Protein Block workshops
12, 44, 22,
12
Project no 2116ZA311
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Limpopo
Mulalani + The
Willows
18/09/2024
Livestock integration and conservation
agreement discussion
26
Limpopo
Madeira, +Sofaya
25/09/2024
Potato seed distribution
14
Limpopo
Madeira
07/10/2024
VSLA training workshop
18
EC,
Matatiele
Nchodu
21/10/2024
Seedling production workshop and seed
distribution
21
1.2.3 Cyclical implementation
The focusfor this period has been introduction of multipurpose chickens (Boschvleders), establishment of a
farmer centre in Ozwathiniand continuation of climate resilient practices support through workshops . Other
activities in this cycle include monthly savings meetings and meetings around water resource management.
Below is a detailed description of activities primarily in the Midlands and also including Southern KZN, Limpopo
and Eastern Cape.
Round 2 boschvelders..
Midlands Progress Narrative: Boschvelders in Ozwathini and Gobizembe
This narrative provides an update onthe progress of Boschveldersin the Midlands area, specifically in the villages
of Gobizembe and Ozwathini. Monitoring was conducted for both the older and newer rounds of Boschvelders
across 12 households. Below is a summary of the Boschvelder orders for the Midlands in 2024.
MIDLANDS BOSCHVELDER ORDERS (DELIVERED 05 JULY 2024)
Area
Farmer
Age
Gender
Total
Amount
Ozwathini
Thembeni Mkhize
4 weeks
mixed
10
R600.00
Foco Zondi
4 weeks
mixed
10
R600.00
Gogo Chamane
4 weeks
mixed
10
R600.00
Mrs Gwamanda
4 weeks
mixed
10
R600.00
Mrs Hlophe
22 weeks
hens
10
R1,700.00
Mrs Dube
18 weeks
2 hens and 1 rooster
3
R420.00
Mrs Bhengu
18 weeks
2 hens and 1 rooster
3
R420.00
Mayizekanye
Mrs Nxusa
8 weeks
8 hens and 2 roosters
10
R1,050.00
Mrs Thombi Shandu
18 weeks
hens
20
R3,000.00
Gobizembe
Mrs Gasa
4 weeks
mixed
10
R600.00
Mrs Mpeli
8 weeks
hens
5
R450.00
Mrs Mbatha
8 weeks
hens
5
R450.00
Total
106
R10,490.00
Midlands Monitored Households (August/September)
Name of the
village
Farmer’s name
Recent/older
round
Number of
boschvelders currently
available
Mortality
rate
Type of feed for
the chickens
Gobizembe
Elliot Zuma
Older round
39 (27 hens, 12 rosters)
7
Layer mash +
yellow maize
Project no 2116ZA311
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Thandazile Mthonsi
Recent round
4 (5 hens)
1
Layer mash
Mam Zuma
Recent and older
round
11 (7 hens 5 roosters)
12
Yellow maize,
greens, layer mash
Mam Gasa
Recent round
9 (6 hens 3 roosters)
1
Layer mash
Mam Mahlaba
Recent round
5 (5 hens)
0
Layer mash
Bab Zondi (youth
group)
Older round
9 (4 hens, 5 roosters)
1
Layer mash +
greens
Mbuyiselo (youth
group)
Older and recent
round
25 (17 hens, 8 roosters)
0
Layer mash +
yellow maize
Teddy (youth group)
Older round
12 (8 hens, 4 roosters)
0
Layer mash+ greens
Ozwathini
Mam Xulu
Older round
38 (28 hens, 10
roosters)
10
Layer mash + maize
Mam Hlophe
Recent round
10 (10 hens)
0
Layer mash
Mam Dube
Recent round
3 (2 hens 1 rooster)
0
Layer mash
Gogo Mkhize
Recent round
19 (13 hens, 6 roosters)
1
Layer mash.
Farmers reported that the main causes of mortality among their chickens included cold weather conditions,
predation by household dogs, and some instances where the cause was unclear—healthy chicks would be found
dead the next morning. To address mortality,farmers preparealoe water for their chicks, a traditional remedy
used by older generations to relieve stress.Most of the participants have managed to breed and bulk up their
small flocks, which they started with either 5 or 10 birds. This is very encouraging, as being able to increase and
manage own flocks has been one of the primary intentions of introducing muti-purpose chickens to the farmers.
Case Study: Martina Xulu (Matina Xulu:
Mam Xulu received her Boschvelders in 2022 when they were
four weeks old. Since then, she has successfully reproduced her
chickens six times—twice naturally and four times using an
incubator. She noted that the incubated chicks showed greater
fertility than those reproduced naturally, though load shedding
posed challenges.
To incubate her eggs, Mam Xulu collaborates with a neighbouring
farmer, Bab Ngcobo. They have an agreement where she
provides him with45 eggs, and he keeps 15 of the chicks
produced. She does not pay him for this service.
In her first two rounds of natural reproduction, Mam Xulu
produced 11 and 12 chicks, respectively. During her third round,
she experimented with incubation, yielding 15 chicks from 45
eggs. However, only 8 of these chicks survived due to cold
weather conditions. In the fourth round, she again incubated and received 15 chicks, with 13 surviving, again due
to cold weather.
Project no 2116ZA311
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Unfortunately, during the fifth round, all chicks were lost to
predation by dogs in Bab Ngcobo's household. In her most recent
round, Mam Xulu received 7 chicks, all of which survived, though
she remains uncertain about the cause of mortality for one chick.
Mam Xulu manages two chicken houses: one for older chickens (5
roosters and 15 hens) and another for younger chickens (5 roosters
and 13 hens). She feeds her chickens a mixture of yellow maize and
layer mash at a ratio of 1 kg perday, divided equally between the
two houses.
The first three rounds of her chickens are currently laying eggs,
which she consumes and sells to neighbours. She reported thather
hens have been consistently laying eggs without issue. Mam Xulu
plans to resell some chickens to her neighbours, as Boschvelders
are a rare breed, while retaining enough for her household to
ensure a steadysupply of eggs, given their increasing market value.
SKZN Mahehle Boschvelder summary
A totalof 199 Boschveld breed chickens have beendelivered in the village for the year, this is made up of78
eight-week-old hens, 119 twenty-two-week-old hens and two roosters. Poultry stockwas delivered intwo
batches where we first received the younger ones with the
slightly older ones coming later and much closer to point of lay.
The Boschveld breed is firstly an alternative to the poor supply of
Lohmann brown and Hy-line brown layer breeds we have
supplied in the past. This is a multipurpose breed for both meat
and eggs that is also hardy with more resistance to infections and
diseases. Furthermore, this breed resembles traditional chickens
but with better laying capacity and tastes more like traditional
chickens that people are used to. They also can survive on
whatever little is offered to them but can lay big eggs when fed
properly. So, in this way farmers have some relief andflexibility
in providing laying mash that is bought form suppliers in town.
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Table: Boschvelder delivery 2024
Name
22-week-
old
MDF
contribution
8-week-
old
MDF
contribution
Roosters
Khaliphile
5
5
Sebenzani Mlitwa
5
5
Philie Radebe
20
5
Nomusa Linda
4
4
1
Millicent Zondi
5
5
Nomali Tenza
3
3
1
Lucia Mfene
7
5
Jabulile Chiya
4
4
Zola Mkhize
5
5
Zodwa Ndaba
5
5
3
Doris Nkandi
5
5
Antone
5
Elizabeth Mdladla
4
4
Lungile Gema
20
Khulumokwakhe Dlamini
25
5
TOTAL
72
45
53
25
2
Figure: Zodwa with her eggs from her flock of birds
Project no 2116ZA311
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Midlands Progress Narrative:
Youth Group Nursery
The youth group currently consists of 8 members, and its activities include growing and keeping Boschvelders,
maintaining tower gardens, andmanaging a collective nursery. This narrative provides an update ontheprogress
of the youth group's third planting round in the nursery.
Before planting, meetings were held to establish rules and reorganize the committee, as some members had left
for various reasons, including job opportunities and returning to school. These meetings also focused on planning
and preparing for the nursery planting day. This preparation involved collecting funds from group participants to
purchase necessary inputs, compiling a list ofrequired materials, and determining the types and quantities of
seedlings for the nursery trays and seedling beds.
The following committee members were elected:
•Teddy: Chairperson
•Bab Zondi: Treasurer
•Sphesihle: Secretary
The group decided to plant the following seeds in their nursery:
•Spinach (4 trays)
•Onions (2 trays)
•Cabbage (2 trays)
•Beetroot (2 trays)
•Chinese cabbage (3 trays)
•Chillies (2 trays)
•Green lettuce (2 trays)
•Red lettuce (1 tray)
The nursery has three small seedling beds, and the group agreed to plant spinach,cabbages, and a mixture of
beetroot, Chinese cabbage, and lettuce in the respective beds. They also decided to purchase the seedlings for
the seed beds to minimize transplant shock, preferring to sell the seedlings grown in trays directly to customers.
Planting took place on August 16, 2024, and all agreed-uponseeds were planted. Aroster for irrigation and
maintenance was created and the membershave been keeping to the roster, as the nursery is collectively
managed by the group.
Monitoring of the seedling nursery occurred on August 23, 2024, revealing an 80% germination rate, with Chinese
cabbage yetto germinate. A second monitoring took place on August 30,2024, showing approximately 95%
germination overall, with healthy growth rates forthe seedlings. The group has the intentions of selling their
seedlings to the community and is maintaining accurate records of all sales to prevent confusion and conflict.
Project no 2116ZA311
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Farmer Centre Progress report
*Date:[23 September 2024], Location:[Ozwathini], Facilitator:[Nqe Dlamini and Noxolo Sibiya}, Recorder:
[Tema]
Attendees: P Ngcobo, S Sikhakhane, Alice Cele, Mrs Thembi Mkhize, Siya Khuzwayo, Mrs Hlongwa, Mrs Ngubane
Bab Dlamini, Bab Maphumulo
Welcome and Introduction
P Ngcobo welcomed all members and explained the background of the Farmer Centre, emphasizing its purpose
to provide affordable agricultural inputs to the community.
Key Discussion Points
1.Purpose of the Farmer Centre: Bab Dlaminiclarified thatthe main purpose isto sell agricultural inputs to
the community at affordable prices.
2.Current Status: The Farmer Centre is still in the pilot phase, exploring productdemand. Members are
encouraged to make monthly contributions to build capital for inputs.
3.Financial Contributions: What will contributions be used for? Do members expect returns on contributions?
The group expressed a desire to make money and emphasized the importance of transparency regarding
benefits from the Farmer Centre.
Project no 2116ZA311
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4.OperationalManagement: Questions regarding the management of the Farmer Centre included: Will
customers buy products, and how is this determined?Do members possess the necessary knowledge and
skills? Is there sufficient funding to start and operate? Are expected profits realistic and sustainable?
5.Membership Structure: Current membership stands at twelve. The group agreed to keep membership at
this level to avoid complications, with any new members being screened by the existing group.
6.Defining Member Benefits: Each member was tasked with writing out howtheywill benefit fromthe Farmer
Centre. The importance of defining benefits to ensure long-term sustainability was emphasized. Examples
of potential benefits:(Discounts for regular payments, priority purchasing rights, diversified product
offerings to maintain operations during off-peak seasons, equal dividends based on profits, eligibility for
government assistance for full-time members).
7.Profit Distribution: The group must agree on a specific timeframe for profit distribution and the percentage
of dividends. This is still to be finalized
8.Incentives for Services:there was a discussion on how to fairly compensate members providing services,
whether through cash or alternative incentives.Members need to meet and discuss these incentives and
how they will be rolled out.
9.OperationalPlan: Agreement needed on operating days for the Farmer Centre, which will not open every
day initially.
10.Marketing Strategies: Emphasis on utilizing multiple marketing platforms, including social media(Facebook,
WhatsApp), to reach a broader audience.
11.Location and Logistics: The Farmer Centre will serve four villages/households. Discussion on transportation
of goods, emphasizing the need for upfront payment for transport services.
Homework Assignment: Members are encouraged to consider long-term goals for the Farmer Centre, keep
regular records, and ask questions to foster clarity and understanding.
Questions from Farmers: Farmers expressed interest in diversifying their offerings. They were advised to focus
on one product initially to ensure quality and stability before expanding.
Conclusion
The meeting highlighted the importance of clear communication, planning, and member engagement as
foundational to the success of the Farmer Centre. Members are encouraged to reflect on their roles and
contributions moving forward.
Project no 2116ZA311
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PEST AND DISEASE WORKSHOP-MAYIZEKANYE
**Date: September 11,2024, Location:The Dutch Church Facilitator: Sphumelelo Mbhele, MDF
Pests and diseases pose significantchallenges to farmers,
causing extensive damage to crops. While chemical solutions
such as fungicides, insecticides, and bactericides provide
quick relief, they are costly and can harm both human health
and the environment. Mayizekanye farmers, facing
persistent pest issues, requested a workshop with MDFto
explore sustainable pest and disease management strategies.
The objectives of the workshop were to identify common
pests and diseases affecting local gardens, explore
environmentally friendly methods of prevention and control
and share knowledge about beneficial plants and animals in
the garden.
Pest and Disease Control Discussion: The workshop's discussion opened with an interactive session where
farmers shared their experiences regarding pest and disease management in their gardens. The following key
points emerged:
Farmers reported encountering a variety of pests, including:
•Aphids: Small insects that suck the sap from plants, causing wilting.
•Cutworms: Larvae that cut through the stems of young plants.
•Beetles: Known for damaging foliage and fruit.
•Moles: Burrowing animals that disrupt root systems.
•Snails: Gastropods that create holes in leaves.
•Moths: Particularly harmful to grains and leafy greens.
•Stalk Borers: Larvae that tunnel into plant stems, weakening them.
Current Practices
To manage these pests, farmers have implemented several control measures:
•Chemical Solutions: The use of a powdered chemical known as "blue death" was highlighted. While
effective temporarily, pests often return after a few irrigation cycles, indicating a need for more
sustainable options.
•Wood Ash: Sprinkling wood ash is utilized to deter moths and moles.
•Zamlandela (Moth Balls): These chemical pest repellents provide some level of control over moths and
are reported to irritate moles due to their strong scent.
Disease Symptoms Noted
Farmers expressed concerns about various crop diseases, which manifested in the following ways:
•Holes in Leaves: Indicating pest damage.
•Rotting Cabbages and Beans: Suggestive of fungal infections or pest infestations.
•Black Spots on Spinach: Likely a sign of disease, possibly fungal or bacterial.
•Wilting Leaves: Often associated with pest damage or environmental stress.
Challenges Identified
Project no 2116ZA311
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Despite their efforts, farmers noted challenges in effectively controlling diseases. Many expressed uncertainty
about identifying specific diseases and how to treat them. This points to a knowledge gap in recognizing
symptoms and understanding organic or integrated pest management strategies.
Recommendations
To address these issues, the following strategies were recommended during the workshop:
1.Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Promote the use of IPM practices that combine biological, cultural,
and mechanical solutions alongside minimal chemical use.
2.CropRotation: farmers were encouraged to rotate cropsto disrupt pest life cycles and improve soil
health.
3.Companion Planting: it was suggested that planting certain crops together may deter pests naturally
and examples were given.
4.Regular Monitoring: Develop a routine for monitoring gardens to identify pest and disease issues early.
SEEDLING PRODUCTION TRAINING-MATATIELE
Seedling production and seed distribution inMatatiele, Nchodu Village. Twenty-one
(21) participants were present for the workshop on the 21stof October 2024with the aim to improve their
learning on seedling production. The workshop looked at tips for seedling production: good, fresh seed, fertile,
soft soil, shadeand clean water. Next was seedling production in trays and on seed beds lookingat steps on
preparing tray growing medium and preparing a seedbed. The farmers got to understand that seeds are planted
differently. Some seeds need to be directly planted, while othersneed to be made into seedlings for transplanting
and other seeds can eitherbe directly sown or planted into seedlings. The participants got to understand how to
care for seedlings in the seedbed, how to transplant themand how to prepare the planting holes. After the
seedling production discussion, the farmersreceived seeds to plantinto seedlings on their seedbeds and compost
basins. Seeds received include, swisschard, kale, cabbage, coriander and beetroot.
Project no 2116ZA311
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Second round of tunnels
There were no new tunnel installations in the Natal Midlands in 2024. The last round of tunnels was completed
in 2023 where 8 tunnels were installed in Mayizekanye.
Village Savings and Loans Association
Midlands VSLA Group Progress
The Syakhula group has officially entered their fourth year of savings after a successful shareout meeting in the
first week of October. The group accumulated a total of R 156 727.40 in shares and interest paid in the 2023/24
savings cycle and celebrated arecord increase in sharevalue from 23% inthe previous cycles to 27.3 %in this
cycle. When calculating individual dividends, the new share was rounded off to R 120 for ease of counting. The
highest amount made by an individual member was R 15 240 and the lowest amount was R 2159.00. A total of R
390.40 remained in the box. The meeting proceedings ran smoothly and all members were satisfied with their
dividends. Below is a table outlining the individual shareout values.
Syakhula Savings Meeting-October 2024
The first meeting of the fourth savings cycle convened on the 16th of October 2024. The chairperson opened the
discussion by welcoming all members and thereafter the committee was dissolved. Tema led a discussion on the
selection of a new committee and the revision of the group constitution.The group unanimously agreed that the
outgoing committee served themwell and requested that they retain their positions, leading to their
reinstatement. Thus, there were no changes in terms of group structure and committee. A total of R 13 100 was
saved and loans taken amounted to R 12 400 leaving a balance of R 1090.40 in the box. There were discussions
around opening a stokvel account where it was agreed that the group would make adecision oncethe bank
representative has visited them. As itstands, the money boxremains in possession ofthebox keeper in the
group.
BOOK
NUMBER
NUMBER OF
SHARES
NEW SHARE
VALUE
TOTAL DUE
1
120
R127.00
R15,240.00
2
120
R127.00
R15,240.00
3
97
R127.00
R12,319.00
4
39
R127.00
R4,953.00
5
34
R127.00
R4,318.00
6
28
R127.00
R3,556.00
7
53
R127.00
R6,731.00
8
98
R127.00
R12,446.00
9
120
R127.00
R15,240.00
10
49
R127.00
R6,223.00
11
89
R127.00
R11,303.00
12
22
R127.00
R2,794.00
13
74
R127.00
R9,398.00
14
20
R127.00
R2,540.00
15
18
R127.00
R2,286.00
16
17
R127.00
R2,159.00
17
113
R127.00
R14,351.00
18
120
R127.00
R15,240.00
Project no 2116ZA311
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Siyakhanya Savings Group
The group convened on the 10th of October for
their monthly savings where a total of R 6600.00
was bought in sharesand a total of R 8 415.00
was paid out in loans. The 13 member group has
been progressing well with no reported
conflicts, meeting punctuality and very good
member attendance. The closing balance now
stands at R 27 218.50.
Southern KZN VSLA Group Progress (Groups that have opened Bank Accounts)
Siyakhula and Qedindlala Savings Groups
In Southern KZN, both the Siyakhula and Qedindlala groups demonstrated commendable progress in their savings
initiatives. The emphasis on individual responsibility for record-keeping has fostered a sense of accountability
among members, ensuring thateveryone plays an active rolein their financial management. As these groups
continue tocollaborate and learn,they are building a stronger foundation for financial literacy and
empowerment within their community.
The Qedindlala group has successfully opened a stokvel account with FNB. In September, the members
successfullysaved R10,700and received R32,002.50 in loan repayments, resulting in a total of R42,702.50
generated by thegroup. They then approved loans totalling R39,500, leaving a balance ofR3,206.50 at the
conclusion of the meeting. The group requested that the field staff deposit R3,200 into their stokvel account on
the way back, retaining R6.50 in the box.
Project no 2116ZA311
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.
Adding members on the FNB App
The Qedindlala group has been thriving with their FNB stokvel account, bringing peace of mind to the box keeper
since the account's inception. The establishment of the account hasstreamlined their savings process and
fostered greater transparency.
Plan for Adding VSLA Members
Following the recent meeting, field staff plannedto integrate VSLA membersinto the FNB app to ensure they
receive timely bank notifications regarding the stokvel account. This step will enhance communication and keep
all members informed about their savings and transactions.
To add memberson the app you must go onto the stokvel account
which the 3 trustees shouldhave access too, then press manage
members, where you’ll have to enter the persons name, surname and
cell phone number. The member being added needs agood reception
and airtime to follow through the process. The member will receive
an SMS of an invitation from which they’ll haveto dial *120*321#
then select option 4 ‘stokvel’ then follow prompts that will need the
members IDnumber and bank information to which their share-out
will be paid into. Once accepted the newly added members appear
immediatelyon the app as a member and will receive SMS
notifications when deposits are done.
Adding members must be done manually and it takes a bit of time as
some membersneed assistance with the process. Due totime
constraints, fewmembers were added to the account and the plan
was for the group to meet again for their savings meeting on the 7th
of October 2024 andshould bring their ID copies so that fieldstaff can
help add them to the stokvel account.
Umnothowethu Savings Group
Umnothowethu VLSA group is currently in its second cycle, having successfully conducted one share-out that
divided the group into two. However, despite this experience, the group has faced significant challenges with
record-keeping. The mistakes included inaccurate record keeping, discrepancies in balances, mismanagementof
interest payments, absenteeism of committee members and incorrect loan calculations. Despite these record
Project no 2116ZA311
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keeping issues, the group has made great strides in understanding their financial operations through the
assistance of MDF field staff. Given the complexity of the financial management involved, it’s essentialfor the
Umnothowethu VLSA group to have ongoing support and oversight to ensure:
•Continued accuracy in financial records.
•Proper tracking of shares and loan repayments.
•Regular reviews of interest calculations to prevent further discrepancies.
Umnothowethu VLSA group is on a path toward improvement, yet it remains crucial to closely monitor their
activities to prevent any future mistakes that could affect both shareholding and the interest charged on loans.
By reinforcing good financial practices and encouraging diligencein record-keeping, the group can enhance its
overall financial health and sustainability.
Centocow VLSA’s
There are two group existing in Centocow which are Sizaneno and Senzakahle who are doing very well in terms
of handling the VSLA administration in recording, counting interests and making transaction sheet are balanced.
Both groups have 13 participants each, with Sizaneno being the oldest group of the two where Simon Dlamini is
Chairperson and Senzakahle taking inspiration from Sizaneno. Majority of Senzakahle VSLA mambers are youth
made up of young makoties below the age of 35 years and one male youth at the age of 27 years. The group is
well organised and accurate in recording, calculations and handled the rest of the savings terms and conditions.
Thuthukani VLSA, Nchodu, Matatiele
The group is now in its third month of the cycle and the group couldn’t be more then happy to be saving monies
together for the bettermentof their lives. in efforts to reduce risk ofkeeping large amountof cash in the cashbox
with Nthuseng Makhonya; box keeper; who stays alone at her home; the group quickly jumped on the idea of a
stokvel account.
On the 11th of September 2024, the three
elected signatories; Phumla Nyembezi, Mme
Mankasela and Nthuseng Makhonya; were at
the Matatiele FNB branch early morningto
open the group’s account. Along with their
ID’s, proof of residence and personal NFB
accounts, they spent a big part of the day at
the branch. The account is named Thuthukani
VLSA 2024 STOKVEL with Phumla having
access to the FNB app onher smartphone.
However, allthree signatories are receiving
SMS notification of all account related
information. The rest of the members will be
added manually through the app for
notifications.
Savings summary
A total of 54 shares amounting to R5400 were bought, 13 members made R3654 paid back in loan repayments
making a total of R9054 on the day, the grand total for the day was R11 004, including the R1900 balance in the
box and R50 in fines. New loans issued on the day amounted to R8100 split among 8 members with R2000 and
Project no 2116ZA311
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R400 being the largest and smallest respectively, leaving R2904 in the box. This was deposited into the newly
opened account with the slip to be put in the box in the next meeting scheduled for the 10th of October 2024 at
a10:00.
Conclusion
An amount ofR100 was deposited on thedayof opening the account, from the R2900 left after themeeting,
R2800 was deposited with the R100 to make it R2900 reimbursed to the member, the total bank balance in the
account tallies up to R2900 as per records.The cashbox has R4 in coins as it couldn’t be deposited.
VSLA summaries for all groups (EC, KZN and LIMPOPO)
Written by Noxolo Sibiya
Monthly summaries for each VSLA is undertaken by the secretaries in the VSLA groups and confirmed and
recorded by MDF field Staff. Noxolo Sibiya, one of our interns undertakes the process of collecting and
summarizing all this information. The savings records as of end July 2024 are shown in the figure below. The
secretaries in the VSLA groups undertake monthly summaries for each VSLA, which are confirmed and recorded
by MDF field Staff. Noxolo Sibiya, one of our interns, collects and summarizes all this information. The savings
records for October 2024 are shown in the table below.
VSLA summaries for all groups (EC, KZN and LIMPOPO) Written by Noxolo Sibiya
No.
Region
AREA
GROUP NAME
NO. OF
PEOPLE
START
Date
Last
mth of
records
# SHARES
BOUGHT
TODAY
VALUE OF
SHARES
(TODAY)
VALUE OF
TOTAL
SHARES
LOAN
REPAID
TODAY
NEW LOAN
TAKEN
MONEY IN
BOX
NEW
BALANCE
1
Midlands
ozwathini
sikhulile
19
Oct-22
Oct-24
0
R0.00
R1,231.00
R5,086.00
R0.00
R156,727.00
R156,727.00
Midlands
ozwathini
sikhulile
18
Oct-22
Oct-24
131
R13,100.00
R13,100.00
R0.00
R12,400.00
R1,090.40
R1,090.40
2
Midlands
ozwathini
siyakhaya
13
Apr-22
Oct-24
66
R6,600.00
R6,100.00
R8,415.00
R3,000.00
R27,218.50
R65,309.00
3
SKZN
ngongonini
mnothowethu
30
23-Feb
Oct-24
77
R7,700.00
R77,300.00
R11,540.00
R6,500.00
R82,340.00
R82,340.00
4
SKZN
Mahhehle
Qedindlala
26
Feb-23
Oct-24
96
R9,600.00
R68,300.00
R9,830.00
R8,000.00
R70,130.00
R70,130.00
5
SKZN
centocow
sizakahle
13
May-23
Oct-24
34
R6,800.00
R11,400.00
R7,842.00
R5,000.00
R14,242.00
R14,242.00
6
SKZN
centocow
sizaneno
13
May-23
Oct-24
27
R5,400.00
R11,100.00
R6,530.00
R3,500.00
R14,130.00
R14,130.00
7
Limpopo
Santeng
Rekakgona
13
Jan-23
Oct-24
48
R4,800.00
R13,000.00
R3,300.00
R2,500.00
R13,800.00
-
8
Limpopo
sedawa village
Kopano Ke
matla
19
Jan-23
Oct-24
47
R4,700.00
R13,400.00
R6,700.00
R3,000.00
R17,100.00
-
9
Limpopo
Maderia
village
Thusang
9
Jan-23
Oct-24
101
R10,100.00
R91,000.00
R23,310.00
R10,700.00
R96,508.00
R94,670.00
10
Limpopo
Maderia
village
Hlalefang
18
22-Sep
24-Oct
151
R15,100.00
R33,300.00
R10,610.00
R22,200.00
R3,610.00
R35,890.00
11
Limpopo
worcester
Rutanang
19
Mar-23
Oct-24
33
R3,300.00
R71,700.00
R24,140.00
R17,700.00
R13,791.00
R68,055.00
12
Limpopo
the willows
Epopeng
19
Jul-20
Oct-24
48
R4,800.00
R69,200.00
R46,981.00
R42,100.00
R10,000.00
R77,997.00
13
Limpopo
Turkey village
Tswelapelo
19
Jul-20
-
14
Limpopo
kholofelo
Apr-24
Oct-24
25
R2,500.00
R22,900.00
R11,907.00
R14,430.00
R0.00
R39,506.00
15
Limpopo
Turkey village
refetse
Jul-24
Oct-24
110
R11,000.00
R42,000.00
R10,850.00
R14,000.00
R8,326.00
R36,096.00
16
Limpopo
Maderia
village
hlakanang
24-Oct
Oct-24
51
R5,100.00
R5,100.00
R0.00
R3,200.00
R1,910.00
R5,100.00
Eastern
Cape
Nchodu
Village
Thuthukani
13
24-Jul
Oct-24
54
R5,400.00
R3,654.00
R8,100.00
R2,904.00
R2,904.00
17
TOTAL
248
1099
R116,000.00
R550,131.00
R190,695.00
R176,330.00
R533,826.90
R764,186.40
Summary of savings for all MDF VSLA groups in Limpopo, Midlands and SKZN
A total of 248 participants across 16 VSLAs show an overall saving at the moment of just over R760 000 for the
month of October, averaging a saving component of ~R3 081.00 per participant.
A toal of 553 particpants across 31 VSLAs (if the 15 VSLA groups from Bergville in KZn are also included) show
an overall saving at the moment of just over R2million, averaging a saving compoenet of ~R3 700 per
participant.
Community based water management
GOBIZEMBE WATER ACCESS MEETING
The discussion focused on the current water access challenges faced by farmers in the community and explored
potential solutions. Current water collection practices include rainwater Harvesting, farmers reported collecting
rainwater in jojo tanks and drums. There has been consistent water supply from the municipality for the past
three months. In times when taps rundry, farmers rely on local springs for water. Mr.Magubane mentioned a
protected spring near his house that supplies water to the community. Mrs. Mahlaba identified another spring
that is heavily polluted, raising health concerns. Mrs. Duma has a clean spring near her house which requires a
tank for proper water storage. There is one borehole at Gobizembe Primary School. Farmers also receive water
from water trucks, especially when alternative sources are unavailable. Mrs. Ngobese expressed difficulty in
collecting water due to age and requested a jojo tank installation. The quality of water from some springs is
questionable, impacting community health. There are reports of waterpipes being cut and redirected to
unauthorized locations. Some farmers are wary that involving the municipality might slow down progress or
introduce less effective solutions.
In terms of proposed solutions,emphasis wasplaced on theimportance ofcommunity involvement in identifying
and implementing solutions. The need for a collaborative effort with the municipality and relevant stakeholders
was highlighted.Conducting field visits to map water sources and assess their conditions is essential.A detailed
plan should be drafted outlining interventions, resources required, and community contributions.Addressing the
issue of alien invasive species is necessary to improve water availability.Rehabilitation of dongas is crucialto
prevent erosion and protect water sources.
Way Forward :
1.Engagement with Authorities: MDF team todiscuss water access programs with the municipality and
Umgeni Water.
2.Follow-Up Meeting: Schedule a follow-up meeting to further discuss water sources and conduct
mapping activities.
3.Strategy Development: Facilitate discussions on findings from the field visits and brainstorm additional
strategies for improving water access.
4.
Conclusion
The discussion served as the foundation for ongoing conversations about water access in the community. The
commitment ofthe group to invest in proposed solutions will be critical for the success of future initiatives.
Collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders will also play a significantrole in addressing the complex
issues surrounding water availability.
Grazing management, Livestock intergration
Grazing management, Livestock Integration
Project no 2116ZA311
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On the week of the 13th of August 2024 to the 16thof August 2024, four villages in Limpopo attended a protein
block workshop. The Willows, Madeira, Turkey and Worcester, and Mulalani. The workshops started with the
practical demonstration of how to construct the protein block, sharing all the materials needed to be mixed and
the quantity of each material. After constructing of the protein block field staff shared more information on the
material used, and their function and benefit.
Protein blocks are useful when dry , when standing feed is abundantand low in protein/ there is little feed
available for livestock like in Limpopo during winterseason. They are supplements made for cattle/goats and
sheep’s who are on forage diets. Protein blocks can only maintain liveweight or control liveweight loss in
breeders. MDF facilitated a practical demonstration of howfarmerscan make their own protein blocks as a
group/individually during wintertime when there’s no grass for livestock, farmers can supplement with protein
block to maintain livestock weight. Protein block supplements veld grazing with natural and NPN-proteins,
carbohydrates and minerals. It helpsstimulates intake and veld utilisation by providing the correct balance of
nutrients to the rumen microbes.
Constructing the protein block started with mixing the dry materials 16 x 2kg of Procon 33, 2x 2kg ofcoarse salt,
7 x 2kg of maize meal, 4 x 2kg of whitewash. After thoroughly mixing the dry material, molasses was added as
the wet ingredient to
join the block
together. The
mixture wasfirst
mixed using a spade
and then by hands
before being shaped
Project no 2116ZA311
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1.2.4 Indicator development, Monitoring and evaluation.
An important component of MDF work is clyclical monitoring and evaluation which helps theorganisation to
track theprogress of set objectives for that particular project cycle. Atotal of 20 resilient snapshots were
conducted in the Midlands in 2024. The snapshots form part of the yearly monitoring of implemented activities
and also review changesover time. The interviewsfocused on group demographics, practices implemented,
group collaborations and networks, mindests towards climate change and income streams amongst others. This
section will give a brief summary of the findings from the interviews.
Group Demographics
The community groups established and affiliated with MDF are comprised of primarily of elderly women (51-65
and above) who survive on government grants, farming and
remittances. There is a small percentage of men between the
same age group who survive mainly on farming and
government pensions. The organisation had also targeted the
“missing middle“, these are individuals between the ages of 35
and who are unemployed but also do not qualify for
government grants. Unfortunately, this group is largely
absent. The graph below give a depiction of the households
that were interviewed, which represent the overal group
structure.
Community Networks
Collaboration is an integral part of communities as it enables the pooling of resources and facilitates knowledge
dissemination and also promotes solidarity. Community groups such as churches, farming groups, funeral
schemes and stokvels have been the backbone of communities for a long time. Through the facilitation of MDF,
new CRA learning groups have been established which began with an official membership of around 43% of the
farmers who attended workshops and meetings and has since grown to 100%, meaning that secondary
participants have merged into the learning groups over time.
0
20
40
60
80
Female Male
(18-35)
(36-50)
(51-65)
(>65)
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Percentage of farmers
Group Name
Midlands Group Collaborations Before and After
farmers before
farmers now
Project no 2116ZA311
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Traditional Practices
In terms of farming, the importance of indigenous knowledge cannot be emphasised enough. Although farming
has been steadily declining due to climate change, farmers shared tradition practices they implemented which
helped them cope in the past. The use of
wood ash, manure, seed saving and
planting basins have survived the test of
time as many farmers still practice these
albeit in varying degrees. Ocen drawn
ploughing used to be an important part of
traditional farming but has since dwindled
significantly. Conventional tillage is
another traditional practice which
continues to be part of the smallholder
farming system despite a steady decline in
yields. The graph alongsideshows the
farmer responses with regard to
traditional practices commonly used
before they were introduced to climate
resilient agriculture.
Change in Farming Activities
Farmers were asked about their farming activities before and after they were introduced to climate resilient
agriculture. These activities were grouped into four main categories, namely field cropping, gardening, livestock
and trees and otherresources. There has been an increase in the percentage of farmers who practice field
cropping, livestock and have planted fruit trees. However, the percentage of farmers involved in gardening has
remained constant. The reason for this is that field crops in the Midlands are an important source of income and
include a variety of crops such as beans, maize, amadumbe, sweet potatoes, and potatoes which save for maize,
have a steady market. Although the number of farmers practicing field cropping in generalhas increased over
the years, maize production has been on a steady decline due to unstable markets and the knockoff effects of
COVID-19. Gardening is primarily forconsumption smoothing, although farmers do sellto neighboursand at
their monthly market stall (inOzwathini). Livestock has increased primarily because of poultry, which includes
layers, broilers and multipurpose chickenbreeds which have becomequite popular amongstfarmers due to their
quick turnover and they also provide a source of protein for the household.
31.25
6.25
12.5
6.25
6.25
37.5
6.25
62.5
12.5
6.25
010 20 30 40 50 60 70
Conventional tillage
Liquid manure
Manure /compost
Natural Medication…
Planting basins
Ploughing using oxen
Rain Prayers/Rituals
Seed saving
Use of oxen
Wood ash
Percentage (%)
Traditional Practices Implemented
by Farmers Before
Field
cropping Gardening Livestock
Trees and
other
resources
farmers before31.25 7575 43.75
farmers now68.75 75 87.5 50
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Percentage (%)
farming activities
farmers before
farmers now
New CRA Practices Adopted by Farmers
Good agricultural practices that promote climate resilience remain at the heart of the work done by MDF in
communities. As such, through weekly field visits and observations as well as discussions during interviews the
team was able to determine which newpractices were adopted by farmers. In terms of promoting soil health,
the most prevalent practices were trenchbeds, micro tunnels and the use of manure. Whenit comesto plant
production, mixedcropping, crop rotation and conservation agriculture were the most commonly applied
practices. Water conservation practices most widely implemented included mulching, tower gardens, drip
irrigation and diversion ditches. Livestock integration practices mainly included the planting of cover crops.
Fodder production and winter supplementation.
Trenchbeds, 75%
Microtunnels, 75%
Shallow
trenches,
5%
Furrows
and ridges,
5%
Compost,
10%
Manure,75%
Tower gardens, 50%
Greywater use,
10%
Rainwater harvesting,
30%
Drip irrigation, 40%
Mulching, 45%
Diversion
ditches, 15%
Liquid manure,
20%
CA, 50%
Planting
herbs, 5%
Natural P&D
control, 10%
Mixed cropping, 60%
Inter cropping, 25%
Crop rotation, 65%
Improv
ed
housin
g, 5%
Fodder
production,
10%
Cover crops, 35%
Winter
supplementati
on, 20%
Grazing
managemen
t, 10%
Fire
breaks,
5%
cutting
and
feeding
, 5%
Soil
Water
Plant production
Livestock Integration
Income Generation
The resilient snapshots also helped to shed light on how the various farming activities translate into income. In
terms of average income, gardening had an average increase in income of R 1512/annum, field cropping came
to R 5040 and livestock had an average increase of R428/annum.
Use of Money from Savings
Savings group play a multifunctional role in the lives of farmers. Although they were established as a way to
support farming activities they have come to serve other purposes such as education, food, household used
and business activities.
The above graphs indicate significant increases in livehood secuirty for the smallholder farmers participating in
the CRA implmentation processes.
Date: 31 October 2024
Total
Average of Increase in income
from gardening (R)1512.866667
Average of Increase in income
from field cropping (R)5040.125
Average of Increase in income
from livestock (R)428.4375
0
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
Income (R)
Average Increase in Income in Gardening, Field Cropping
and Livestock
18.75
31.25
37.5
6.25
25
6.25
0
10
20
30
40
EducationFoodHousehold useOtherProductionSmall business
Percentage (%)
Uses
Use of Money from Savings