Caption:(left) MEC Moeketsi and DARDLEA HOD, Cain Chunda, posing with the DARDLEA mascot
By Kopano Dibakwane
The newly appointed MEC for Mpumalanga DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Khethiwe Moeketsi, presented the department’s budget vote for the 2025/26 financial year, highlighting key initiatives and programs aimed at promoting agricultural development, rural transformation, and environmental sustainability.
Key Flagship Initiatives
MEC Moeketsi said the department’s flagship initiatives include the Mpumalanga International Food Market (MIF), which is expected to be operationalised by the end of July 2025.
According to Moeketsi, the MIF aims to provide a platform for smallholder farmers to access markets and improve their livelihoods. Additionally, the department is implementing the Phezukomkhono Mlimi Programme, which focuses on empowering communities to produce their own food and build sustainable livelihoods.
Support for Smallholder Farmers
The department is committed to supporting smallholder farmers through enhanced infrastructure, extension services, and targeted funding. The Mpumalanga Agro Fund, a R400 million blended finance partnership, has been established to drive inclusive agricultural development in the province.
Legislative Backing
The department is also working on the Mpumalanga Nutrition Sourcing Bill, which aims to ensure stable and reliable market access for emerging farmers and promote local food production.
Strategic Focus on Targeted Groups
The department’s strategic focus includes supporting youth, women, and persons with disabilities in agriculture and rural development. Initiatives such as the Inkanyezi Poultry Project and “Eggsellent by Lebo” are being implemented to empower women in agriculture.
Budget Allocation
“ The 2025/26 budget for the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, Vote 05, which is R1,615,634,000 (One billion, six hundred fifteen million, six hundred thirty-four thousand rand),” said MEC Moeketsi.
• Administration: Two hundred and seventeen million, eight hundred and thirty-seven thousand Rands (R217,837 000)
• Sustainable Resource Management: Seventy-six million, five hundred and forty-six thousand Rands (R 76,546 000)
• Agricultural Producer Support and Development: Seven hundred and twelve million, two hundred and eighty-nine thousand Rands (R712 289 000)
• Veterinary Services: One hundred and fifty-five million, seven hundred and five thousand Rands (R155,705 000)
• Research and Technology Development Services: Seventy-three million, forty thousand Rands (R73,040 000)
• Agricultural Economics Services: One hundred and fifty-nine million eight hundred and sixty-seven thousand Rands (R159,867 000)
• Structured Agricultural Education and Training: Twenty-nine million six hundred and ninety-eight thousand Rands (R29,698 000)
• Rural Development Coordination: Twenty-five million eight hundred and eighty-three thousand Rands (R25,883 000)9. Environmental Affairs: One hundred and sixty-four million, seven hundred and sixty-nine thousand Rands (R164,769 000).
