More than 30 agricultural extension officers at Vhembe Central in Tshilamba are allegedly being compelled to alter official records as part of what sources describe as a “paper regularisation” exercise linked to the 2024/2025 financial year. The Limpopo Department of Agriculture, however, insists the process is routine audit preparation.
Multiple sources, speaking anonymously for fear of victimisation, allege that officers have been confined to office duties for three to four months instead of conducting fieldwork. They claim officers are being instructed to re-complete farmer support application forms after production inputs were allegedly distributed without proper documentation.
Sources further allege that officers are being directed to unlawfully certify identity document copies by photocopying certification stamps onto uncertified documents to make them appear legitimate. Additional allegations include the drafting of false affidavits, fake traditional authority proof-of-residence letters, and the signing of documents on behalf of farmers and fellow officers.
“The whole process is meant to cover up audit issues,” one source said. “Instead of providing extension services to farmers, officers spend the entire day creating and correcting paperwork.”
Another source described the situation as “frustrating and psychologically draining,” adding that staff were reluctant to speak out for fear of losing promotion opportunities.
The alleged office confinement has also created problems for officials on subsidised vehicle contracts, which require a minimum of 2,333 kilometres of fieldwork per month over four years. Sources say many officers cannot meet those targets, raising concerns over possible contract extensions, penalties and tax implications.
The department's Head of Communication Services, Moshupologo Mothotse, said districts are currently conducting pre-audit exercises as part of routine administrative processes guided by departmental procedures and internal audit outcomes.
She explained that Agricultural Extension Officers play a key role in supporting farmers by providing technical advice, promoting sustainable farming methods, assisting with crop and livestock challenges, and helping farmers build profitable and climate-resilient businesses. Their work includes both field visits and office administration.
According to the department, annual checks are conducted across all Vhembe district zones to ensure that performance information is properly captured, documented, and stored in line with required protocols to guarantee accuracy and reliability.
Mohotse said no complaints had been received from farmers regarding service delivery in the Tshilamba sub-zone, and that all employees are aware of official grievance procedures under public service regulations.