Supporting Women, Growing Rural Economies

This Women's Month, the ECDC celebrates the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs who are transforming lives through enterprise. Among these inspiring businesses is Amamfengu Women Agricultural Primary Cooperative Limited, a 100% women-owned cooperative that is proving how agriculture can become a powerful vehicle for inclusive economic growth and rural development.

Established in 2017, the cooperative was founded on a shared vision of creating sustainable livelihoods through agriculture. What started as vegetable production on just two hectares of land has grown into a thriving farming enterprise. With an additional three hectares secured through the Wittekleibosch Community Trust, the cooperative has expanded its operations to meet increasing demand while strengthening food production within the local community.

The women cultivate a diverse range of vegetables, including cabbages, potatoes, butternut, peppers and rosemary, supplying fresh produce to hawkers, catering companies, spaza shops, crèches and Die Kooperasie. Through dedication, consistency and an unwavering commitment to quality, they have built trusted relationships with their customers and established reliable markets that continue to sustain and grow the business.

Like many emerging rural enterprises, the cooperative faced challenges that limited its ability to expand. Reliable access to water, secure fencing and essential farming infrastructure were critical to increasing production and ensuring long term sustainability.

Recognising both the potential of the cooperative and the determination of its members, the ECDC approved funding of R400 750 through the Imvaba Co-operative Fund. The financial assistance enabled the installation of a borehole and solar powered water pumping system, the construction of water storage infrastructure, fencing for two hectares of farmland, as well as bush clearing and tree removal to prepare additional land for cultivation.

These improvements have transformed the cooperative’s ability to operate efficiently and sustainably. With a reliable water supply and expanded farming capacity, the cooperative has increased its production footprint from two to five hectares, positioning the business to better serve existing markets while creating opportunities for future growth.

Beyond the financial support, the cooperative continues to benefit from mentorship provided by The Coop Community Trust, equipping its members with valuable technical knowledge and business support. The Amamfengu women have also begun producing their own seedlings, reducing production costs and improving operational efficiency, demonstrating their commitment to building a self-sustaining enterprise.

The impact of the cooperative extends well beyond the farm gates. The business has retained 18 jobs while providing sustainable livelihoods for its five cooperative members, creating income opportunities that support households and contribute to the local economy. Their success demonstrates how investing in women-led enterprises creates a ripple effect that strengthens communities, promotes food security and inspires future generations of women entrepreneurs.

The flourishing fields of Amamfengu Women Agricultural Primary Cooperative are a testament to the extraordinary impact that women can make when given the opportunity to succeed. Every harvest represents more than fresh produce, it reflects the enduring power of women to transform their communities, one season at a time.