ABOUT US
Prosperity is our priority
Who We Are
Eksteenskuil Agricultural Co-operative (EAC) is a member-owned primary agricultural co-operative representing more than 100 smallholder farming families across three islands in the Lower Orange River region near Keimoes, Northern Cape.
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Established in 2006 from the former Eksteenskuil Farmers Association (EFA), EAC serves as a central support structure for its members and the wider community. The Co-operative promotes sustainable agricultural production, farmer development and collective economic growth through skills development, capacity-building programmes, strategic partnerships and improved access to local and international markets.
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Our farmers cultivate more than 520 hectares of agricultural land, with raisin production forming the community’s most important commercial crop. The area’s favourable climate also supports the production of lucerne, watermelons, potatoes, maize and other crops. Through strong relationships with members, partners and stakeholders, EAC continues to strengthen agricultural productivity, economic resilience and sustainable livelihoods in Eksteenskuil.
Our Vision
To be a world-class raisin producer of choice, delivering consistently high-quality raisins through sustainable production practices.
Our Mission
To support irrigation farmers in the Lower Orange River region to become self-reliant, economically sustainable and successful, enabling them to improve the quality of life of their families and communities.
We pursue this mission through:
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Access to local and international markets for high-quality agricultural products
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Continuous training, skills development and capacity building
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Strong and mutually beneficial partnerships
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Effective planning and responsible management
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Open communication, cooperation and knowledge sharing
What We Do
EAC coordinates agricultural, developmental and market-related support to strengthen its members, improve raisin quality and create sustainable livelihoods across the Eksteenskuil community.
1. Production and Quality Support
We help farmers improve vineyard production, harvesting, drying and post-harvest handling to produce consistent, high-quality raisins using sustainable agricultural practices.
2. Market Access and Readiness
We support members in meeting market requirements, buyer expectations and export standards. This includes production-record management and preparation for compliance with organisations such as the Perishable Products Export Control Board.
3. Training and Skills Development
Coordinating support around vineyard production, quality improvement, harvesting and post-harvest handling.
4. Farmer Development and Compliance
We help farmers strengthen their technical knowledge, business capabilities and operational systems through mentorship, capacity-building programmes and compliance preparation.
5. Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation
We work with government departments, funders, research institutions, industry bodies and development partners to attract resources, expertise and opportunities for our farmers and community.
6. Community Development and Support
Our work extends beyond farming. EAC has supported local schools, community gardening initiatives and farmers affected by drought. We believe in sharing available resources and responding where there is genuine need.
Eksteenskuil at a glance
100+ Farming Families
Supporting a vibrant smallholder farming community whose roots stretch back to the early 1920s.
1,025 ha Farming Footprint
Covering the three islands and additional member farms that contribute to Eksteenskuil’s agricultural economy.
3 Production Islands
Agricultural production takes place across three islands in the Lower Orange River, with the Co-operative’s office located on Middle Island.
147 Farming Units
The irrigable land was consolidated into approximately 147 farming units during the 1970s, creating an average unit size of about 3.86 hectares.
Cooperative Registered - 2006
EAC was formally established from the former Eksteenskuil Farmers Association to create a strong, member-owned agricultural organisation.
45 km From Upington
Eksteenskuil is situated near Keimoes, approximately 45 kilometres from Upington in the Northern Cape.
Explore Our Story
Leadership and Governance
Meet the people responsible for guiding the Co-operative, representing its members and supporting accountable decision-making.
Our History
Learn how farming in Eksteenskuil developed from the first families who settled in the area during the 1920s to the establishment of EAC in 2006.
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Partner With Eksteenskuil
Help us strengthen smallholder agriculture, expand market opportunities and create sustainable livelihoods in the Lower Orange River region. We welcome partnerships with government, industry, research institutions, funders, training providers and development organisations that share our commitment to farmer empowerment and rural development.