This project of the Maluti Agriculture Resource Unit (MARU), together with the CCS, was funded through SASIX to the amount of R129,960. The first amount of R43,320 was received on 20 December 2006. An amount of R27,956.79 has been spent to date on the following: workshop material, accommodation, travel for beneficiaries, stationery, and telephone and fax.

The training of the first group of twenty one beneficiaries was held at John Paul II Centre in Bethlehem from the 4-11 February 2007. It consisted of five days of training in basic vegetable production (which was a mixture of theory and practicals). During the practicals the beneficiaries were taught how to prepare beds and how to plant seedlings and seeds. The last two days dealt with general capacity building (understanding poverty, the poverty trap, communication skills, listening skills and social teachings).

The beneficiaries were from all over the eastern Free State (Marquard, Warden, Steynsrus, Kransfontein, Villiers and Clarens). The age of the beneficiaries was from 20 to 35. There were 11 men and 10 women who had finished school and were unemployed. The beneficiaries signed a contract with us to train another five community members each in their area, so replicating the training they had received and expanding the programme.

MARU managed to get other funding to buy tools for the beneficiaries. All the beneficiaries received a spade, wheelbarrow, rake, spit fork, transplanting tools and seeds as a starter pack. During delivery of the tools a week after training most of the beneficiaries had already started preparing the land for planting. This showed commitment and gave us great encouragement.

The beneficiaries will be given support by the MARU fieldworkers for the period of one year. The coordinator will also do the field visits and identify the individuals who will be able to move to a larger space and form an income generating project.

We are very grateful for the funding we received, as it has helped to achieve our aims and assist the most disadvantaged members of our communities.

Kenny Hanong MARU Programme Coordinator