mafefe

Ga-Mampa commubity, Mafefe

Mafefe village is located in the Capricorn municipality, is a mountainous area 200 km south east of Polokwane. Thanks to the perennial river Mohlapitsi, small scale family farmers irrigate their fields using flood system.
In this village, the CRCE works with the Ga-Mampa community on traditional surface irrigation schemes, on the diversification of livelihoods (dairy goats keeping, eco-tourism…) and on youth issues. The CRCE started its collaboration in this area in 2002 with women’s groups, by introducing an idea of rearing dairy goats.

“Where can we get these goats? We can do it!”

The CRCE received a grant from the French Embassy to support the introduction of dairy Goats in the Ga-Mampa rural community. The support was in a form of lease payable by returning a pregnant goat to the group. At the first workshop a video film was shown on the experiences of small dairy goats keepers from Tanzania. “ Where can we get these goats? We can do it! ”, was the first question from the public. The success of the pioneers has encouraged others to join the Lafata Dairy Goat Keepers Group and apply for goats. The grant allowed CRCE to successfully set an original model of partnership with the Limpopo Province Department of Agriculture and the rural communities.

Members of the Dairy Goat Keepers Group who didnt receive goats formed the traditional chickens group. The CRCE introduced indigenous Venda and Naked neck chickens to improve local chickens and bring a source of protein. After trainings and exchange visits, interested people deposited R50 into a common account, which allowed them to receive 5 chickens.

"We are the active members of the community"
The CRCE is also working towards the organisation of two youth groups active in Ga-Mampa. The youth defines themself as "the active members of the community". A group on “life orientation” teaches people about the prevalence of HIV and related diseases and informs young people about teenage pregnancy and venereal diseases. This group also deal with career guidance. The second youth group works on job creation as unemployment is one major issue affecting youth at Ga-Mampa. and links them with relevant organisations.

The Mampa Development Centre

Encouraged by the local municipality, these groups have formed a platform: Ga-Mampa development forum is a non-political community based platform gathering groups of breeders, youth groups, water users association… As the forum wanted a place to operate, the CRCE supported in 2006 the building of the Mampa Development Centre in partnership with development forum. The purpose of this centre was to create a place where groups can operate, where farmers can store their equipment, where meeting can be held... However, the Mampa Development Centre host the “drop-in” group. This group is working under the Department of Social Development and supports 50 orphans and children from poor families with some of the basic necessities. The Development Center is also used as a mobile clinic centre and a social pay point.