On 05 June 2025, the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, led by Chairperson Hon. Sipho Dial, conducted an oversight visit to the Madikwe Sisal Project.
The delegation included Cllr Caroline Motshabi, MMC for Local Economic Development, highlighting the collaborative effort to assess the initiative’s progress.
Chairperson Hon. Sipho Dial outlined the purpose of the visit, stating, “It is aimed at assessing the project’s current status, evaluating the utilization of government funds, and identifying challenges. It is important that we monitor such projects closely to guarantee that allocated resources yield tangible benefits for our communities.”
Mr. Mosiane, Manager of Agriculture at Moses Kotane Local Municipality, delivered a detailed presentation on the project’s history and development. The Madikwe Sisal Project, located in Madikwe Township, covers approximately 800 hectares of tribal land. Originally established by the former Department of Agriculture, the project was later revived with contributions from various stakeholders. It is now overseen by the Department of Economic Development, which appointed the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to manage its implementation.
Furthermore, he presented a comprehensive report detailing the factors that led to the project’s previous collapse. He explained that, of the 480 hectares allocated, only a small portion was planted, resulting in an unreliable supply of sisal fibre.“As such, customers could not rely on the insufficient fibre supply, which led to the collapse of the project,” he said.
MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Madoda Sambatha, acknowledged the challenges and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to reviving the project.
“We recognize the potential of the Madikwe Sisal Project in transforming our rural economy. Our focus is on addressing the identified challenges and implementing sustainable solutions,” he stated.
Ends
Issued by Communication Unit.
