ADA Project Showcase 

Project Name: Qalakahle Farming Services CC

Project Location: Mtubatuba, Ward 5

Project Background:

Qalakahle Farming Services CC is a 100% black-owned (all-male) farming enterprise based in the Mtubatuba Local Municipality within the uMkhanyakude District. The business was established in 2008 and commenced operations on Farm Tasma Estate in 2020, focusing on sugar cane, macadamia nuts and vegetable production.

The farm is 251 ha in extent and has 24 years remaining on its 30-year lease from the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development. The farm comprises 205.4 ha of arable land, of which 142.7 ha is planted to sugar cane, 53.4 ha to macadamia nuts, with 10 tunnels dedicated to vegetable production.

Qalakahle Farming Services applied for and received assistance specifically to support its macadamia nut production, contributing to the development and strengthening of this component of the farming operation.

ADA Intervention:

1. Construction of a dehusking facility (steel storage shed).
2. Procurement and installation of a dehusking machine, including processing machinery and a drying area.

Impact of ADA Funding:

1. Enhanced operational efficiency by reducing reliance on outsourced dehusking services.
2. Positioned the enterprise to benefit from increased production as the macadamia orchards reach full maturity.
3. Contributed to the retention and creation of 44 employment opportunities (26 permanent and 18 seasonal jobs).
4. Supported rural economic development through improved agricultural productivity and local employment.
5. Established a solid foundation for continued business growth, investment, and improved market access through enhanced processing capability.