MEC NQATHA’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

As we prepare to close year 2018, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our farmers, private sector stakeholders, the youth and our departmental officials for the contribution they have made in their various capacities, in ensuring that the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform performs better in all aspects. In ensuring that our vision of Vibrant, equitable, sustainable rural communities and food security for all. is realised, we have put strategies in place and are working with various partners outside of government in implementing these. During the past few months we worked towards ensuring that our farmers were provided with mechanisation, production inputs and were ready for the cropping season. This is to ensure that come harvesting time, they are in a position to sell good quality maize in large quantities to local and international markets A few months ago some of our farmers shipped maize to Vietnam, that is a huge milestone for us as a rural province and for our previously disadvantaged farmers. We have seen the harvesting of high value crops in the Western District, the implementation of the livestock traceability programme which is key towards the commercialisation of the livestock industry. As government, we are also mindful of the adverse impact the drought is having on some parts of the province. The Department is working hard in ensuring that our farmers get the necessary assistance they need to alleviate the strain of the dry spell. Testament to this, on Tuesday this week we launched a feedlot in the Joe Gqabi District to help farmers fatten their cattle for markets. This is one of 12 feedlots that are operating in the province. 2019 is an election year and all hands will be on deck to ensure that the country runs a smooth election and the transition of the current term to the other is done in a smooth and professional manner. Our focus as we tackle the financial year ahead with be on land. I wish to welcome the current parliamentary process to bring about amendments to Section 25 of the Constitution. As the province we will be convening a Land Summit early next year to discuss the land questions with all stakeholders. We firmly believe that all these land questions are at the heart of securing long lasting solution to the question for our country. As you enjoy the festive season, I would like you to ruminate upon this come up with appropriate solutions as we enter 2019.

Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.