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Growing the Eastern Cape Through Structured Rural Finance

May 28, 2026

On a 10-hectare farm opposite Ducats Township, just 10km from East London CBD, Ms Liziwe Dakiso is steadily building a diversified and expanding agricultural enterprise.

As one of ECRDA’s new Structured Rural Finance clients, her progress demonstrates how targeted financial support can unlock real production growth and strengthen rural enterprises.

“The loan came at a critical time when I had recently acquired additional pregnant breeding sows that were due to give birth within weeks. The funds were used to purchase lactating feed for the nursing sows and weaner feed for the piglets, as well as additional nutrients and equipment to mix my own feed.

This ensured that the sows produced sufficient milk for the piglets and that the piglets reached the required market weight within 30 days. As a result, all piglets were marketed and sold on time, which increased my revenue generation,” said Ms Dakiso.

As the owner of PORKHUB (PTY) LTD, Ms Dakiso is more than a pig farmer, she is a woman in agriculture strategically expanding across multiple livestock streams to strengthen her production base and commercial footprint.

She is currently under ongoing mentorship from the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation (SAPPO) and CS Vet Veterinary Consultancy (Vet CS), who provide technical and veterinary support to enhance productivity and compliance.

Her farm currently consists of:

• 50 breeding sows, of which 60% are currently pregnant and expected to farrow in March and April, in line with her production plan

• 150 piglets at any given time

• 32 cows

This diversification reflects intentional growth, strengthening income streams, and building long-term sustainability.

Her produce is trusted by established buyers, including:

• East London Abattoir

• Local butcheries

• Local small-scale farmers

These market relationships confirm both quality and consistency, key indicators of a commercially viable enterprise integrated into formal value chains.

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Grain, fodder and vegetable (food) crops

Grain, fodder, and vegetable crop production is a catalytic intervention that transforms underutilised rural land into commercially viable agricultural production hubs.

Horticulture development, forestry and timber processing

The forestry, timber processing, and horticulture intervention expands commercial production in these sectors while deliberately integrating small-scale producers and millers into the mainstream economy.

Livestock commercialisation

The livestock commercialisation initiative transforms the Eastern Cape’s substantial livestock resources into sustainable, competitive, and export-oriented commercial

Agri-clusters and rural enterprise development hubs

Rural enterprise development hubs are strategically designed geographic interventions that target specific rural areas to create economically viable clusters anchored on local commodities and comparative advantages.

Technology Mainstreaming for Field Crops and Animal Fibre

This strategic initiative identifies and develops fibre-based opportunities derived from both crop and animal resources within the province.

Structured Finance Services

Finance that stimulates vibrant economic activity.