THE FUSE

Smallholder farmer support schemes in South Africa play a central role in strengthening rural economies and improving national food security. These programmes are designed to assist emerging and subsistence farmers who often lack access to finance, equipment, and technical knowledge. Many smallholder farmers operate on limited land and face challenges such as climate change, high input costs, and market access barriers. Government and private sector initiatives aim to close these gaps by offering targeted support. This support helps farmers move from basic production to more sustainable and profitable farming systems. The long-term goal is to build a more inclusive agricultural sector that benefits communities across the country.