By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
Mpumalanga MEC’s for DEDT(Economic Development and Tourism), and DARDLEA(Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs),Jesta Sidell and Kethiwe Moeketsi respectively, met at the Mpumalanga International Food Market Boardroom, in the City of Mbombela.
The meeting reportedly form part of ongoing efforts to align agricultural production, environmental compliance, and economic development under the Mpumalanga International Food Market initiative.
The Mpumalanga International Food Market is viewed as a key provincial project aimed at boosting agro-processing, exports, and job creation while ensuring sustainable land and resource management.
According to DEDT, the meeting furthermore highlighted other areas of mutual interest for both departments including; addressing, promoting, and organising an inter-entity resolution that establishes explicit accountability, enhancing administrative effectiveness, and guarantees that all mandates are carried out in full compliance with governing laws and policy guidelines.
“ Additionally, the meeting discussed relevant legislative and regulatory guidelines pertaining to the operational and management duties of Thekwane Citrus Farm and Loopspruit Farm, along with the suitable stewardship and implementation of the environmental role, particularly in relation to biodiversity management, within the scope of current legal frameworks,” said DEDT.
The two MECs were joined by senior officials from both departments and other stakeholders.
