Successful First Harvest at Caskor Boerdery in Ebenhaeser

Caskor Boerdery, a flourishing farm located in Ebenhaeser, has reached a remarkable milestone with its first harvest of the year—an impressive 290 tons of Heinz variety tomatoes. This achievement is the result of tireless dedication from farmers Lourens Kordom and Phillip Casper, who also cultivate beans and onions. Their hard work, combined with strong support from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) and implementing partner Mulalo Netumudi, demonstrates how collaboration and perseverance can yield incredible results.

The journey began with a vision. Faced with water scarcity in the region, Lourens Kordom initially explored flood irrigation as a way to restore the land. Though that method proved unsuccessful, his determination never wavered. Seeking a more sustainable solution, Kordom turned to the WCDoA, applying for funding through the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme (CASP). The approval of his application marked a turning point for the farm’s future.

With CASP funding secured, Casidra stepped in to implement an advanced irrigation system and supply critical farming inputs such as fertilisers. This investment laid the foundation for enhanced productivity, allowing farm operations to run smoothly and efficiently.

Reflecting on the journey, Kordom shares:

“Being able to provide for those in need within my community is the most rewarding part of my job.”

Kordom remains focused on continued growth and innovation. To stay competitive in a fast-evolving industry, he actively networks with local commercial farmers and keeps a close eye on market trends. With preparations for the next planting season already underway, he plans to expand cultivation to over 1.2 hectares of beans and onions, further increasing the farm’s output.

A strong believer in strategy and foresight, Kordom lives by the saying:

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

His experience highlights the critical role of structured agricultural development and the profound impact of well-implemented support programmes.

Caskor Boerdery’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved when resilience, strategic planning, and community-focused farming come together. Their success is not just a personal victory—it’s a beacon of hope for small-scale farmers across the Western Cape.