Nominations for Annual Female Farmer of the Year Competition Open

Female farmers of the Western Cape are encouraged to take part in this competition that aims to honour women for their contribution to the agricultural sector. "It is the Department's priority to honour the women in the agricultural sector of this Province for the invaluable role they play," says Charlene Nieuwoudt, communications manager of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture. "This competition is one of the ways in which we do just that. However, we also wish to create an awareness of the vast variety of opportunities within the sector and thus encourage young people to consider agriculture when they make their career choices."

Female farmers can enter or be nominated in the following categories:

1. top exporter (more than 30% of production volume aimed at the export market)
2. top producer for national markets (more than 30% of production volume aimed at the national markets)
3. top producer for informal markets (selling to informal local markets)
4. top producer for household use (e.g. vegetable gardens)
5. top contributor to agriculture

The category for the top contributor to agriculture is for women who make a significant contribution to agriculture in general, ie. via development work or training or by promoting the sector or specific industries. The criteria include that candidates must be creative and innovative in their approach and be dedicated to the conservation of natural resources. They must also promote equity and create and maintain jobs.

The closing date for entries and nominations is 26 June 2007.

For Enquiries:
Gizelle van Wyk
Tel: 021 808 5022
Email: gizellevw@elsenburg.com