MEC shows support for local farming initiatives
COMMUNITY gardens are vital for ensuring food security and easing the burden of escalating food prices.
This was the message shared by KZN Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Super Zuma during a recent visit to Nongoma.
He explained that the government is willing to work with communities to ensure people who are dependent on farming save money and are able to buy other household goods.
"People can easily feed on produce from the garden to support their families and society," he said.
While addressing the masses on a trip to KwaDabhazi, Zuma said, "The recent increase in food prices makes it difficult for people to keep up with food security and sustain livelihoods."
The issue of water scarcity was also raised, with mention of the dams constructed and boreholes installed by his department locally. This is to support consumption, as well as implement the 'one home, one garden' initiative.
The MEC also commented on the challenges faced by livestock farmers in communal areas, such as livestock theft, lack of infrastructure and high mortality rates owing to diseases and parasites.
"It is undisputed that animal healthcare services provided by our department play a major role in ensuring animals are given the optimum amount of care and treatment that is beneficial to their health.
"This is why we are building and revitalising livestock infrastructure throughout the province," said Zuma.
The department intends to role out the Communal Livestock Improvement Programme in all KZN districts and provide continuous animal healthcare support and services.