From Decline to Revival: Women Farmers Rebuild Agriculture in Allen

Zanele Mathonsi

After years of watching their fields decline, women farmers in Allen Farm are finding new ways to keep agriculture alive. Despite water scarcity, degraded soil and concerns among residents about the impact of nearby Ikwezi Mine on local water resources, some farmers are refusing to give up.

Agriculture has long been an important source of food and income for families in the Allen farm community. However, residents say farming has become increasingly difficult as water becomes scarce and poor soil quality. Concerns about the condition of local water resources have added to the challenges faced by farmers.

A previous targeted investigation into the decline of agriculture in Allen Farm highlighted how these challenges were affecting farming practices and household food security. This  follow up story now looks at what is happening after the decline, are farmers finding ways to recover? Women farmers are beginning to adapt by exploring more sustainable and climate-smart approaches. These include mulching to retain moisture, making organic compost to improve soil fertility, harvesting rainwater and planting crops that can cope better with dry conditions. Women farmers are also rebuilding household vegetable gardens to improve access to fresh food to sustain their livelihoods.

These efforts demonstrate the resilience of women farmers who are adapting their practices rather than abandoning agriculture altogether. Their experiences provide an opportunity to examine whether small-scale, locally driven solutions can contribute to agricultural recovery in a community facing environmental challenges.

The revival of agriculture will require more than the efforts of individual farmers. Farmers need access to reliable water, agricultural knowledge, suitable seeds and support to improve soil health. Communities also need meaningful engagement with relevant authorities and mining stakeholders where environmental concerns affect livelihoods.

By documenting both the challenges and the solutions emerging from Allen Farm, the story aims to raise awareness of climate-smart farming, strengthen support for women farmers and encourage accountability for protecting water resources. For these women, recovery is not simply about planting crops again. It is about rebuilding livelihoods, strengthening food security and proving that even in difficult conditions, hope can still take root.