LIMA is a South African NGO that designs and implements rural development programmes, including agricultural support, youth & enterprise development, environmental restoration and community infrastructure.
About Us
We support the simultaneous development of people and livelihoods in resource-scarce contexts, particularly in rural areas. Through well-integrated, field-based
interventions, Lima leverages local economic development activities and the establishment of appropriate
institutions to help alleviate poverty and build human capacity.
What We Do
We design and implement development programmes that create sustainable livelihoods. Our services include:
- Programme design and feasibility studies
- Community facilitation and participatory planning
- Implementation of donor and government programmes
- Agricultural extension and farmer support
- Enterprise development and training
- Infrastructure construction and project management
- Early childhood development
Our Footprint
40,000+
Farmers supported
3,950
Infrastructural developments
101,550
Careers impacted
110,500
Youths empowered
Latest News
32,337
Lima Rural Development Foundation
A non-governmental and non-profit organisation.
The dedication and hard work of our Social Employment Fund (SEF) participants have resulted in another successful harvest at the Manenzhe Clinic food garden in Musina!![]()
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Fresh carrots, beetroot, leafy greens, and cabbages were recently harvested, showcasing the impact of sustainable food production and the commitment of participants to supporting local food security and nutrition.![]()
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Food gardens like these do more than produce fresh vegetables; they improve food security, increase access to nutritious food, and provide participants with practical agricultural skills. By transforming available land into productive growing spaces, the SEF programme is helping communities build greater resilience and become more self-reliant.
Lima, in partnership with South Deep Mine, the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Red Meat Industry Services, recently hosted a two-day Livestock Production Training Programme at the Bekkersdal Agri-Park.![]()
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The training brought together 33 farmers from South Deep's host communities, equipping them with practical knowledge and skills to strengthen and grow their livestock enterprises. Participants engaged with industry experts, exchanged knowledge with fellow farmers, and took part in interactive sessions focused on best practices in livestock production.![]()
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As part of the programme, participants also completed a competency assessment, with successful candidates set to receive certificates issued by Red Meat Industry Services in recognition of their newly acquired skills and knowledge.![]()
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Through partnerships like these, we continue to equip farmers with practical skills and knowledge that strengthen their enterprises and support sustainable rural development.
This Mandela Day, our Umhlathuze Social Employment Fund (SEF) participants from the Somopho locality dedicated their 67 minutes to making a meaningful difference in the life of an elderly community member.![]()
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The team visited 96-year-old Mr Gabela, and delivered groceries to his home, accompanied by members of the local ward committee.![]()
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This was made possible through a generous R2,000 donation from Mr B. Mthembu, owner of Shilo Farm. The contribution was used to celebrate Mr Gabela and provide him with the items he needed.![]()
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The Somopho SEF team extends its sincere gratitude to Mr B. Mthembu for his generosity and continued support. ![]()
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His contribution made this Mandela Day initiative possible, and he has also previously donated seedlings to the Somopho SEF team to support household food gardens, helping to strengthen food security and improve livelihoods within the community.
In Blouberg, Limpopo, our Social Employment Fund (SEF) participants dedicated their Mandela Day activities to serving and uplifting their community through acts of kindness, care and support.![]()
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As part of the day's activities, participants harvested fresh spinach and distributed it to vulnerable households. They also visited elderly community members to assist with cleaning yards, washing dishes and pots, offering practical support where it was needed most.![]()
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Through a donation from Subiaco Mission, clothing and household items were distributed to two vulnerable households, with further donations planned for the coming week.![]()
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Participants also spent time with children, reading stories, playing games and creating meaningful moments of connection and joy.![]()
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These acts of service reflect the power of communities coming together to care for one another.
Today, the spirit of Mandela Day came alive in Shiela Village, Ditsobotla Local Municipality, North West, where our Social Employment Fund (SEF) participants dedicated their 67 minutes, and so much more, to making a lasting difference.![]()
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This year's act of service focused on Oretshegofaditse Early Learning Centre, one of only two established early childhood development centres in the village. Led by a passionate and qualified principal, Nelly Mokhuane, who is also one of our programme participants, the centre is a beacon of hope for young children and their future.![]()
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Our participants spent the day repainting classrooms, building shelves, cleaning the entire facility, and creating a safe, welcoming and inspiring learning environment for the children who will soon return to school.![]()
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The day was about more than paint and cleaning. It was about restoring dignity, investing in the foundation of education, and proving that when communities unite, meaningful change happens.![]()
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We believe every child deserves a space where they can learn, dream and thrive. By strengthening early childhood development, we are investing in the future of Shiela Village, one child, one classroom and one act of kindness at a time.![]()
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As we celebrate Mandela Day, we are reminded that true leadership is found in service, and that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a legacy that lasts for generations.