Rams and a wool-shearing shed for KZN farmers

The farming community of Ndawana in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has received a boost from the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the form of livestock and infrastructure.

KZN Agriculture MEC Super Zuma visited the Ndawana area in Mzimkhulu, under Harry Gwala District, where he presented 10 rams to the KwaSenti Wool Growers’ Association.

He also officially handed over the Thabo Morena Wool Shearing Shed and another 10 rams. The donation of rams was done in an effort to contribute to improving the genetics of sheep in the area and help give farmers more competitiveness in the wool market.

Zuma said the construction and handing over of shearing sheds were government projects to empower farming communities and ensure their active participation in the economy. In addition, the recipients of the livestock and infrastructure received essential equipment and training to maintain and operate the shearing shed.

Speaking during the handover, Zuma pleaded with the community to take good care of the facility and its equipment. Tau Motaung, chairperson of the farmers in Ndawana Village, thanked the department and assured the attendees that both the farmers and the wider community were committed to maintaining the facility.

Motaung emphasised the collective responsibility of ensuring the longevity and effective use of the provided resources, highlighting the dedication of the community to make the most of it.

There were demonstrations done to show the community how the equipment is utilised, as it is a fully equipped structure with tools such as a wool sorting table, bale lifting hooks, a singlebase mechanical press, and other tools.

Zuma said these demonstrations would serve as hands-on training, ensuring that the community gained practical knowledge on the proper use and maintenance of the equipment.

KZNDARD KZN Agriculture MEC Super Zuma handed over a wool shearing shed to the Ndawana farming community in KwaZulu-Natal.