In the heart of the Eastern Cape, a transformation is taking shape, one that is rewriting the success story of local communities. At the centre of this inspiring change is the Imvaba Cooperative Fund (ICF), a flagship programme managed by the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC). The ICF programme is designed to support the growth and sustainability of cooperatives across the province, through financial and non-financial assistance aimed at creating lasting impact.
A case in point is the inspiring story of Ulibo-Lokuqala Agricultural Primary Cooperative based in the small town of Alice. Five ambitious graduates joined forces with a shared vision to uplift themselves and their communities. With the ECDC’s funding support of R598 636, they not only planted seeds of hope but also cultivated a successful business. Today, they supply fresh produce to 12 local supermarkets and export to Lesotho, creating both permanent and seasonal employment for 25 individuals. Their journey serves as proof that big dreams can bear fruit when nurtured with the right resources and unyielding determination.
Now, let’s move to the rugged coastline of Port St. Johns, where seven fishing cooperatives received incentives to scale up their operation and co-ordinate their activities as a fishing community operating in the same space, serving the same market. The focus of these fishing co-operatives is harvesting rock lobster. The ECDC provided funding to support the seven cooperatives in acquiring a holding facility valued at R1.7 million, as well as covering operational costs, bringing the total support to R2.8 million.
The holding facility is a specialised infrastructure used to store and maintain live lobsters after they are caught and before they are sold or transported to markets. This facility preserves the quality and value of the lobsters by ensuring they remain healthy and alive during the holding period. The facility consists of pools filled with seawater, mimicking the lobsters’ natural environment to maintain optimal conditions for their survival. However, the mission of the cooperatives extends far beyond ensuring business collaboration success, they are revolutionising the lobster industry while ensuring the community thrives through a sustainable seafood supply chain. Their journey proves how partnerships and innovation can transform lives and economies.
Equally remarkable is the story of the Brightest Farmers Idea Primary Cooperative, nestled deep in the village of Tyalara, cultivating 45 hectares of maize and soya beans, feeding families and livestock across Mthatha and beyond. With the support of the ECDC’s R593 578 funding and training programmes, this cooperative, comprising six permanent and eight seasonal workers, has embraced sustainable agricultural practices, empowering them to cultivate a prosperous future for themselves and the communities they serve.
These are not just cooperatives’ success stories, the people behind them are champions of progress, and symbols of what is possible when people dare to dream and are supported by the ECDC.
These stories highlight more than just the growth of businesses that began as mere ideas with limited resources, they reflect the profound impact of the ICF in transforming lives, reigniting hope, and empowering communities. Through the Imvaba initiative, the Eastern Cape is not only realising successful enterprises but also ensuring a legacy of prosperity for generations to come.
Since inception, Imvaba Cooperative Fund has supported over 400 cooperatives, creating more than 2600 permanent and seasonal jobs while injecting vital resources into local economies. By promoting local ownership and collaboration, the fund not only addresses unemployment and poverty but also strengthens the social fabric that holds communities together.
Aligned with provincial development goals and national priorities, the ICF is a key driver in providing entrepreneurial support, reducing unemployment, and promoting innovation across the province.
Together, let’s create a brighter future for the Eastern Cape.