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Social Economy Exchange (demo)
Implementation partner

Solidaridad Network SA Trust

Automated extract, not yet reviewed

Solidaridad Network SA Trust implements an agriculture-focused the programme programme combining participant employment, smallholder farmer support, food security, digital tools, training, enterprise support and market-linkage support. It works in Gauteng and North West.

Listed in: Jobs for Nature

Footprint

242 work sites in 12 catchments across Gauteng and North West. 41 are greening and environment sites, which count for the fund. 22 sites fall inside a strategic water source area.
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  • Solidaridad Network SA Trust sites, sized by count. Nearby sites group together until you zoom in
  • Strategic water source area
  • A23 (Limpopo)117
  • C22 (Vaal)42
  • A21 (Limpopo)32
  • C23 (Vaal)14
  • C21 (Vaal)10
  • B20 (Olifants)8
  • R10 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)6
  • T12 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)6
  • S20 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)3
  • S32 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)2
  • R20 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)1
  • S40 (Mzimvubu–Tsitsikamma)1

Site locations are approximate, based on addresses.

Layers: DWS quaternary catchments (CSIR ArcGIS) · SANBI Strategic Water Source Areas 2017 · both queried 7 Oct 2026 · Basemap © OpenStreetMap contributors, greyscale · Catchments without a local name show the DWS tertiary code and water management area

Catchment and water source area for each site come from a spatial join of its geocoded point with the national layers. Not checked on the ground.

Sources: Programme payroll records; DWS quaternary catchments; Strategic Water Source Areas (2017)

People employed

Counted from payroll records. Totals only. No personal data. Participants exclude supervisors, timekeepers and admin. Positive exits are payroll exit reasons, not follow-up.

5,893

different people across 4 rounds · payroll-backed

Sources: Programme payroll records · Repeat participation table

1,167

worked in two rounds, and 67 in all three

Sources: Programme payroll records · Repeat participation table

1,537

worked at greening and environment sites, the work this fund pays for

Sources: Programme payroll records · Greening sites only

Whole programme and greening sites only
All roundsParticipantsWomenUnder 35With a disabilityPositive exits
Whole programme5,89350%62%4373
Greening sites only1,53753.2%62.4%271
Participants by round
RoundParticipantsWomenUnder 35Left for a jobLeft to studyPermanent job or enterprise
R11,47748.8%64.9%000
R22,03853.4%62%101
R31,70150.6%60.9%000
R41,83249.6%55.7%50161

Sources: Programme payroll records · Summary and exit reasons by round

Exit reasons as recorded on payroll. There is no follow-up of people after they leave. Positive exits: left for a job, further studies, or permanent employment or enterprise.

Evidence

All 41 results cleared for the demo, grouped by category. Each shows its confidence label, source, page and caveat.

Automated extract, not yet reviewed. These results were extracted automatically from Solidaridad Network SA Trust's reports and have not been checked line by line. Solidaridad Network SA Trust reports are cited by name and page only. They are not published or available for download. Every environmental result is partner-reported. Nothing is independently verified yet.

Food Security & Nutrition (1)

  • Programme Impact Indicator 1 Number of Labs Supported, Round 2

    1 labsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

Food Security (18)

  • Programme Impact Indicator 2 Number of horticulture smallholder farmers using services from the model (Agriculture Theme), Round 2

    1,362 count of farmersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Programme Impact Indicator 1: Number of households supported by the programme reporting improved food security (Common Good), Round 3

    4,135 householdsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.11

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Programme Impact Indicator 2: Number of learners/community members benefiting from the food security projects, Round 3

    3,797 peoplePartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.11

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Programme Impact Indicator 4: Number of smallholder farmers receiving services from the programme (Capacity building of partners)- services include: land preparation, planting, harvesting, weed control, pruning, seedling production, application of fertilizers and plant protection products, pest and disease management, compost production, equipment (e.g irrigation) system installation and maintenance, and greenhouse setup and management, Round 3

    2,443 farmersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.11

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Good Agricultural Practices training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 2, Round 3

    1,360 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Equipment and Facility Installation/Establishment and Maintenance training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 3, Round 3

    1,142 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Post-Harvest Handling training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 4, Round 3

    1,533 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Value Addition training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 5, Round 3

    1,533 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Participants trained on good agricultural practices, Round 4

    1,697 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.4, Table 4

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • No. of Smallholder farmers receiving agricultural services, Round 4

    512 farmersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.5, Table 5

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of households supported reporting improved food security, Round 4, Q2

    2,216 householdsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.5, Table 4

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of learners/community members benefiting from food security projects, Round 4, Q2

    9,084 peoplePartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.5, Table 4

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Participants trained on good agricultural practices, Round 4, Q2

    1,704 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.5, Table 5

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • No. of Smallholder farmers receiving agricultural services, Round 4, Q2

    1,057 farmersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.8, Table 6

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of CBOs and smallholder farmers that are partnering with Solidaridad to produce food that will be donated to vulnerable households and institutions (common good), Round 4, Q2

    50 partnersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.11, Table 10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of vulnerable households and institutions receiving produce donations (common good), Round 4, Q2

    50 households/institutionsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.11, Table 10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Value of produce donated to households and institutions (cumulative), Round 4, Q2

    36,957 ZARPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.11, Table 10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Cumulative figure.

  • Number of seedlings produced for food production (common good), Round 4, Q2

    55,000 seedlingsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.11, Table 10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

Digital Inclusion (6)

  • Programme Impact Indicator 3 Number of targeted participants utilising digital systems, Round 2

    492 count of participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Digital Systems training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 1, Round 3

    802 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Participants trained to use digital systems (e.g. Open Data Kit (skilled participants), AgroCares Soil Scanner, Training Tracker Tool (skilled participants), Microsoft Office Suit (skilled participants), Round 4

    114 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.5, Table 6

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • WhatsApp channel active members, Round 4, Q2

    545 membersPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.6

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Participants trained to use digital systems (e.g. Open Data Kit (skilled participants), AgroCares Soil Scanner, Training Tracker Tool (skilled participants), Microsoft Office Suit (skilled participants), Round 4, Q2

    117 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.8, Table 7

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of participants using digital tools for conducting digital surveys and recording training attendance, Round 4, Q2

    126 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.8, Table 7

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

Employment & Livelihoods (6)

  • Programme Impact Indicator 4 Number of young people assigned to agricultural projects, Round 2

    2,005 count of young peoplePartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.10

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • During the one-month extension in June 2024, 1940 participants were retained based on the available budget, Round 2

    1,940 count of participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.1

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Programme Impact Indicator 3: Number of young participants assigned to agricultural projects (Employment and Capacity building), Round 3

    1,692 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.11

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Created an average of 1700 ( 51.6% female, 48.4% male) employment opportunities monthly, for unemployed individuals across 93 localities in Gauteng and North West Provinces, Round 3

    1,700 opportunities/monthPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.2

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Number of young participants assigned to agricultural projects, Round 4

    1,703 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.4, Table 3

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Total additional income generated, Round 4, Q2

    225,060 ZARPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.1, Table 1

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

Micro Enterprise Development (8)

  • enterprise development support to 23 participants who managed to access land, Round 2

    23 count of participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · printedp.3

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Provided 34 eligible participants with seed capital and farming inputs to establish their own farming enterprises, Round 3

    34 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.2

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Six participants advanced their business ideas for potential future funding via the NYDA pitching opportunity, Round 3

    6 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.5

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Business Management/Marketing and Sales training - Annexure B: the programme Round 3 Training Targets, row 6, Round 3

    1,114 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.14

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Number of participants knowledgeable on business management, and marketing and sales, Round 4, Q2

    33 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.10, Table 8

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Number of beneficiaries trained with the necessary skills (including on entrepreneurial skills) and receiving enterprise development support (Capacity building of participants and partners) - business management and marketing and sales, Round 4, Q2

    33 beneficiariesPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.10, Table 9

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Participants trained on costing and pricing, financial management, and developing business plans. 10 Month Target =187, Round 4, Q2

    33 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.20

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

  • Participants trained on how to develop, implement, and evaluate effective marketing strategies. 10 Month Target =187, Round 4, Q2

    33 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.20

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

Organisational Capacity & Sustainability (2)

  • 1537 participants remained active at project close in May 2025, Round 3

    1,537 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · printedp.1

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line.

  • Total participants supported, Round 4, Q2

    48 participantsPartner-reported

    Sources: Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · p.1, Table 1

    Caveat: Automated extract from the partner's reports. Not yet reviewed line by line. Period figure; do not add to close-out totals.

Labels used: Partner-reported Payroll-confirmed Independently verified (none yet)

Finance-readiness checklist

What funders usually ask for, and where Solidaridad Network SA Trust stands. An automated checklist: items marked Not assessed have not been reviewed yet.

  • Baselines

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Work locations

    Partial

    242 sites from geocoded addresses; 41 are greening and environment sites. No GPS or work polygons.

  • Costs

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Land rights

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Permits

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Monitoring

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Evidence of water benefit

    Missing

    No measured or modelled water benefit.

  • Employment after exit (3 and 6 months)

    Missing

    Payroll records exit reasons only. No follow-up after people leave.

  • Independent verification

    Missing

    Environmental results are self-reported. People numbers come from payroll.

  • Buyer or payer interest

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

  • Contracted revenue

    Not assessed

    Not yet reviewed.

What Solidaridad Network SA Trust says about its programme

Statements from Solidaridad Network SA Trust's own reports, labelled as intended or reported. Not verified. Automated extract, not yet reviewed.
Outcomes Solidaridad Network SA Trust aims for or reports (9)

  • employment creation and enhanced food security

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • targets achieved in Section Five

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • more than 2000 participants placed as farm workers in 102 localities

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • digital inclusion supports project monitoring and farmer services

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • participants improve livelihoods and communities gain food security

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Participants transition from bridging employment into micro-enterprise ownership via land access, infrastructure development, and market linkage support.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • [the programme] programme functions as a catalyst for social cohesion, enterprise growth, skills transfer, and sustainable livelihoods, beyond job creation.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Participants access flexible income-enhancing work opportunities beyond standard [the programme]-supported workdays.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Enterprise training, mentorship, business registration and assessment processes create pathways to micro-enterprise ownership and self-employment.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

Lessons Solidaridad Network SA Trust reports (14)

  • The project improved monitoring, information dissemination, biometric app usage, resignee follow-up, HR management, support to team leaders/localities, and training quality.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Training must be practical and responsive to the needs of the participant/community to ensure engagement and relevance.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Effective communication, efficient project management systems and consistent monitoring are essential to manage project related challenges.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Providing affordable production inputs and technical advisory services proved beneficial in fostering participants independence and business growth.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Participants' attendance at training sessions held outside their localities is usually low if transport costs are not covered, especially for multi-day sessions.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • The introduction of accredited training in Round 3 increased participant motivation and positioned them for better job opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Enterprise development initiatives are most effective when paired with seed capital and follow-up business support. The combination of training, input provision, and post-programme advisory services significantly enhanced the sustainability of participant-led enterprises.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Digital tools enhanced programme efficiency and real-time data reporting, contributing to better programme management.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Collaborating with government and strategic partners to secure post-programme opportunities is key, as shown by discussions with GDARDE for Agri-Park seedling production roles for [the programme] graduates.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Early and continuous stakeholder engagement is essential for securing buy-in, improving programme coordination, and mobilising local support structures for participant management and mentorship.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • High dependency on project stipends limits entrepreneurial risk-taking.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Digital assessments indicate a shift from 27.94% of participants reporting high knowledge before training to 74.66% reporting high understanding after training.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Impact assessment findings indicate that 94.3% of participants already perceive business activities (including farming) as viable income-generating opportunities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Retention within the agricultural sector may need to be framed as flexible, income-enhancing opportunities rather than only permanent employment.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

Barriers Solidaridad Network SA Trust reports (31)

  • [the payroll system] App and system errors resulted in discrepancies in headcounts or loss of biometric data.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • With the current model, participants sometimes miss out on certain activities performed during the days they are off due to the limited number of work days.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Delays in funding disbursement, affecting payments and procurement. Rating: High. Impact: Possible disruption or delays in the delivery of project activities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Inaccurate or incomplete participant data affecting reporting. Rating: High. Impact: Misrepresentation of project outcomes and reduced credibility with stakeholders.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Non-compliance with labour laws or contractual obligations. Rating: Low. Impact: Potential legal disputes or penalties.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Low participant engagement or high turnover. Rating: High. Impact: Reduced project impact and unsuccessful completion of planned activities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Failure to adhere to donor or organisational policies. Rating: Low. Impact: Risk of reputational damage.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Challenges encountered during the quarter included initial delays in onboarding, varying levels of locality readiness, and the time required to finalise compliance documentation and contractual processes.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Low attendance at training sessions held outside participants' localities when transport costs are not covered, especially for multi-day sessions.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • High dependency on project stipends limits entrepreneurial risk-taking.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Challenges in recruiting replacement participants for short cycles, particularly in remote sites, slightly reduced participant numbers in the final month.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Limited post-programme support pathways for top-performing participants.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Inconsistent digital skill levels among team leaders and participants, which sometimes delays data submission and reporting accuracy.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Underutilisation of the soil testing lab by some farmers and sites.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Limited post-programme digital inclusion pathways for skilled participants.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Timing of enterprise seed capital distribution commenced late in the programme cycle, limiting participants' ability to fully exploit the farming season.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Most participant-run enterprises operated within informal set-ups, with limited exposure to formal buyers.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Continued dependency of participants on stipend income, which in some cases limited entrepreneurial risk-taking and business scaling.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • [the payroll app] biometric system technical glitches resulting in data loss, attendance gaps, or network disruptions in remote localities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Finance: Delays in funding disbursement, affecting payments and procurement. Rating: High. Impact: Possible disruption or delays in the delivery of project activities

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Inaccurate or incomplete participant data affecting reporting. Rating: High. Impact: Misrepresentation of project outcomes and reduced credibility with stakeholders

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Non-compliance with labour laws or contractual obligations. Rating: Low. Impact: Potential legal disputes or penalties

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Low participant engagement or high turnover. Rating: High. Impact: Reduced project impact and unsuccessful completion of planned activities

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Failure to adhere to donor or organisational policies. Rating: Low. Impact: Risk of reputational damage

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Weather-related disruptions affecting farm activities. Rating: Medium. Impact: Delays in implementation and reduced productivity at farm level

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Limited access to land (Gauteng) and water (North West). Rating: High. Impact: Constraints on production, limiting participant exposure and food security outcomes

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Limited or inconsistent access to markets for produce. Rating: Medium. Impact: Reduced income opportunities for farmers and participants

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Limited transition opportunities beyond [the programme]. Rating: Medium. Impact: Continued dependency on programme income

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Uncertainty around future [the programme] funding cycles. Rating: Medium. Impact: Risk to programme sustainability and participant livelihoods post-project

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Data system adoption inconsistency across localities. Rating: Medium. Impact: Inconsistent reporting quality

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Participant attendance fluctuations and disruptions to work schedules due to persistent rainfall. In some instances, participants reported to work but were unable to proceed with planned activities due to weather conditions.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

How Solidaridad Network SA Trust adapted (20)

  • Issues were reported to [the payroll system]; manual registers were submitted where data could not be retrieved.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Timely submission of draw-down claims and supporting documents. Maintain regular communication with the Account manager, prioritise critical payments, and plan cash flow.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Strengthen data collection processes, and conduct periodic site visits and to verify data.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • HR Manager ensures compliance with labour law; team leaders and host farmers are trained on legal obligations.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Conduct regular participant feedback sessions, align tasks with participant interests, and offer ongoing support.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Conduct regular internal reviews, maintain clear standard operating procedures, and ensure oversight by Project Manager and EXCO.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • These challenges were mitigated through targeted SIP support provided by the IDC, intensified stakeholder engagement, and strengthened internal coordination.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • The Solidaridad team worked proactively with timekeepers and the [the payroll system] technical support team to resolve incidents swiftly; manual registers were used to finalise payroll processing where digital records were irretrievable.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Timely submission of draw-down claims and supporting documents. Maintain regular communication with the Account manager, prioritise critical payments, and plan cash flow.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Strengthen data collection processes, and conduct periodic site visits and to verify data.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • HR Manager ensures compliance with labour law; team leaders and host farmers are trained on legal obligations.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Conduct regular participant feedback sessions, align tasks with participant interests, and offer ongoing support.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Conduct regular internal reviews, maintain clear standard operating procedures, and ensure oversight by Project Manager and EXCO.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Improved planning using weather forecasts; flexible scheduling; real-time communication through WhatsApp groups to minimise unnecessary costs

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Strengthened partnerships with farmers and Department of Agriculture; exploration of alternative production models; alignment of interventions to local context

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Facilitation of market linkages; use of WhatsApp platforms for aggregation and coordination; support for production planning aligned to demand

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Enterprise development support, promotion of diversified income streams, and facilitation of extended work opportunities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Strengthening of exit pathways (employment, enterprise, retention); stakeholder engagement for future opportunities; focus on sustainable skills and enterprise development

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Continuous training and support to team leaders; monitoring usage of digital tools

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Improved planning, including closer monitoring of weather forecasts and the establishment of WhatsApp communication groups managed by team leaders to ensure timely communication of schedule changes and minimise unnecessary transport costs.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

Recommendations from Solidaridad Network SA Trust (17)

  • Exploring opportunities for accrediting training programmes could enhance the value and recognition of the skills acquired, thereby improving participants employment prospects.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • If the budget permits, the number of work days should be increased.

    Intended outcome · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Budget for participant transport allowances for centralised or external training sessions to improve attendance and learning outcomes.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Future designs should include an active reserve list or a standby pool of pre-screened participants.

    Intended outcome · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Continued improvements are needed in integrating digital tools for real-time farm productivity monitoring.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Establishing a structured post-[the programme] support network for top-performing individuals could sustain and multiply programme impact.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Implement refresher and catch-up digital literacy sessions mid-cycle for underperforming sites.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Strengthen sensitisation and enforce soil testing requirements as part of farm planning and productivity monitoring.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Link top-performing digital participants with local digital hubs, youth centres, or community IT opportunities post-[the programme].

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Ensure that seed capital and inputs are distributed earlier in the cycle in future rounds.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Establish partnerships with formal aggregators, local retailers, and municipal markets to open up new trade and growth opportunities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Intensify efforts towards nurturing a culture of income-generation and financial independence from early stages in the project implementation cycles.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Stagger Work Schedules: Where feasible, consider introducing staggered scheduling to ensure participants can engage in all critical farming activities and training sessions, particularly during peak production periods.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Strengthen Post-Training Incubation and Mentorship: Introduce structured business incubation, mentorship programmes, and market access platforms for enterprise development beneficiaries.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Secure Diverse and Sustainable Funding Streams: Expand efforts to secure multi-sector funding to extend enterprise seed capital, training, and advisory services.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Enhance Absorption and Exit Pathway Strategies: Formalise employment and enterprise placement pathways, including securing priority access for [the programme] graduates in Agri-Park seedling production projects, government programmes, and private sector value chains.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Maintain Rigorous Monitoring, Learning, and Adaptation: Continue implementing regular monitoring, learning, and adaptive management processes to assess programme impact, document best practices, and remain responsive to evolving community priorities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

Sustainability, as Solidaridad Network SA Trust reports it (5)

  • Comprehensive training and continuous support are presented as crucial for long-term sustainability of participants agricultural ventures.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Following a proposal submission in June 2025, we spent October through December 2025 engaging with the potential donor; Platinum Group Metals to provide technical clarifications and design an implementation roadmap. The current funding request stands at ZAR 10,239,645 for a 12-month pilot phase, intended to scale into a comprehensive three-year programme.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • Combination of training, input provision, and post-programme advisory services enhanced sustainability of participant-led enterprises.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • The Solidaridad Business Development Team is actively pursuing diverse funding opportunities and developed a proposal to submit to Nedbank for funding.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

  • The Project ReGrow proposal to Platinum Group Metals was submitted to the Unfunded platform for independent expert feedback.

    Reported by the partner · Round 4 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4

What helped Solidaridad Network SA Trust (6)

  • WhatsApp groups, workshops, helplines, email support and baseline needs assessment.

    Reported by the partner · Round 2 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2

  • Accredited skills training greatly improves participant employability and confidence.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Pairing enterprise development initiatives with seed capital and follow-up business support.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Digital tools ([the payroll app], ODK, training tracker tools) enhanced programme efficiency and real-time data reporting.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Collaborating with government and strategic partners to secure post-programme opportunities.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

  • Early and continuous stakeholder engagement.

    Reported by the partner · Round 3 · Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3

Sources

  • Programme payroll records · Export dated 28 Sep 2026. Totals only; no personal data shown.
  • DWS quaternary catchments · Via CSIR ArcGIS service, queried 7 Oct 2026
  • Strategic Water Source Areas (2017) · SANBI BGIS, queried 7 Oct 2026
  • Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 2 · Partner report. Cited by name and page only.
  • Solidaridad Network SA Trust close-out report, Round 3 · Partner report. Cited by name and page only.
  • Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · Partner report. Cited by name and page only.
  • Solidaridad Network SA Trust quarterly report, Round 4 · Partner report. Cited by name and page only.

Partner reports are cited by name and page only, never linked publicly.