By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The vital role played by young farmers in feeding the nation, was emphasised by Mpumalanga MEC for DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Nompumelelo Hlophe, during her recent visit to Extension 4 in Umjindi, which was part of the two-day EXCO Outreach conducted by MEC’s from various portfolios.
Speaking to the young farmers who are products of the Fortune 40 Young Farmers Incubation Programme, she highlighted the transformative impact of farming on the lives of individuals who once struggled to find employment, and are now in a better position to support their families.
According to DARDLEA, the project in Umjindi supplies its produce to several retail outlets, including the Government Nutrition Programme.
Hlophe acknowledged the challenges raised during the meeting with farmers, and promised that efforts will be made to resolve them.
“ MEC Hlophe interacted with farmers from Matsulu during a stakeholders engagement, assuring them that the Department will attend to the pressing concerns raised during the session. The main concerns raised included stock theft, lack of funding for emerging and small-scale farmers, support for youth in agriculture, and a Diptank in the area,” said DARDLEA.
The MEC was accompanied by various officials from DARDLEA, including the Chief Director, Dr Maanda Dagada, amongst others.
