Programme boosts rural economic growth in KZN

With the aim of making sustainable rural economic growth a priority among communal farming projects, the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Department of Agriculture and Rural Development launched the Agricultural Communal Investment Programme at the Blackburn Sports Stadium in KwaMpumuza, Pietermaritzburg.

As economic growth remains the most powerful instrument for poverty reduction, according to KZN Agriculture Minister Super Zuma, the new programme is designed to increase farm productivity by upgrading and rehabilitating communal infrastructure.

The communities in wards 1, 2 and 40 are now equipped with five fully functioning dip tanks. Three grazing camps and two community gardens have also been fenced.

Some of the livestock associations in the area received Bonsmara breeding bulls, which will assist with improvement of existing meat quality and enhance the economic value of local cattle.

Accompanied by traditional and community leaders, Zuma visited the Khothi and Mbubu dip tanks, the Phayiphini grazing camp, the Zayeka crush pen and Indalo Garden. Project certificates were handed to the chairpersons and leaders of projects, indicating the beginning of a new era of success for local farmers.

Inkosi Zondi, KwaMpumuza’s senior traditional leader, said the ancestors of his people were dancing and celebrating the gesture.

He expressed gratitude, saying that the community projects would afford a number of farmers and their households an opportunity to be self-sufficient.

“We are proud of the work continuously being done by MEC Zuma and his determination to change our story. I urge those who have in the past stolen fencing materials to refrain from being enemies of progress. I implore all of you to be good stewards over all that has been given to us.

“Let us be responsible and make sure we take care of what is ours. Let us work the land and create generational wealth for our children,” said Zondi. Umgungundlovu District Municipality speaker, councillor MM Gabela, said they welcomed the department’s interventions as the hope that local farmers needed.

She said the upgraded infrastructure and the donated breeding bulls would open doors to the creation of a sustainable economy.

“Women farmers in particular are highly appreciative, as we are faced with high levels of unemployment. If our projects grow, we will create jobs. The standard has been raised and all that has been provided for our communities will ensure food security,” said Gabela.

Zuma encouraged farmers to work to the best of their ability as the goal was to create rural agricultural firms that would change the narrative of those who were previously disadvantaged.

He said the department would soon be establishing agri hubs in Eston, as well as abattoirs for sheep and pigs, which would greatly assist local farmers to meet market demands. –