Caption ; DR Dagada standing alongside other delegates and officials at the conference
DARDLEA innovation shines at the Public Sector Conference in KZN
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
The Smart Agriculture innovation by Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs(DARDLEA), was the Centre of attention at the 18th Annual Public Sector Innovation Conference held at the Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on 21 and 22 August.
The event, held under the theme “Accelerate transformation through Mission-Oriented Innovation”, reportedly brought together innovators, policymakers, and public sector leaders from across the country to discuss and showcase the transformative power of innovation in tackling complex societal challenges.
DARDLEA said, in a statement, that the Department is proud of the recognition and success achieved through the Smart Agriculture Boxes Project, which won the CPSI Awards in 2023 for its remarkable in addressing food insecurity, poverty and climate change in Mpumalanga, and it remains committed to advancing innovative solutions that align with vision 2030 of the National Development Plan, ensuring a better life for all South Africans.
“Dr Maanda Dagada (DARDLEA)presented on the innovative journey and success story of the Smart Agriculture Boxes Project, highlighting how this initiative has transformed the lives of countless households and farmers by providing sustainable solutions for food production. The project, which has received national and international recognition, is a shining example of how mission-oriented innovation can drive meaningful change in communities,” said DARDLEA.
In addition, DARDLEA said the conference served as a critical platform for exchanging ideas, learning from successful projects, and exploring new strategies for fostering innovation with the public sector. It also said that the Department’s delegation was accompanied by a dedicated farmer(Sibusiso Mogale) who has been using the Smart Agriculture Boxes to cultivate a variety of crops.
Mogale reportedly shared his experience with the project, which has empowered him to improve his produce, enhance food security for his family and contribute to his community’s well-being.
