Minister of Social Development, Lindiwe Zulu, recently conducted an oversight visit to the Zanokhanyo Agricultural Cooperative (ZAC) in Upper Gxulu Keiskammahoek. The project is funded by the National Development Agency (NDA) and is part of a series of engagements in Buffalo City and Amathole district ahead of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Parliament on July 14, 2023.
The role of the NDA
The NDA is an agency reporting to the Social Development Ministry, with a mandate to contribute towards the eradication of poverty and its causes in South Africa. They facilitate sustainable development programs through grant funding and capacity development of civil society organizations. The programs aim to generate income and create jobs in previously disadvantaged communities.
Zanokhanyo Agricultural Cooperative (ZAC)
ZAC is a project funded by the NDA that operates on 130 hectares of land. The cooperative focuses on producing and selling sweet peppers, blueberries, and lucerne, contributing significantly to the local economy. With NDA funding of R493,350, ZAC plans to expand operations by increasing the number of shade nets to boost production from 300 to 480 tons.
The project’s members will also receive training from the NDA, complementing technical training provided by the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform. The sweet peppers produced at ZAC are sent to the CARARA Agro-processing plant in Grahamstown, where they are repackaged and sold in local and international markets.
Minister Zulu’s visit
Minister Zulu’s visit to ZAC showcases the positive impact of the NDA’s funding and capacity development efforts. The success of the cooperative highlights the potential of similar projects to alleviate poverty and contribute to South Africa’s sustainable development.
The visit was open to media coverage, with members of the press invited to attend and report on the event, held on July 13, 2023. This initiative aims to raise awareness and garner support for projects funded by the NDA, emphasizing their role in reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development in South Africa.
Collaborative efforts
This story serves as a testament to the importance of collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, and communities. By working together and leveraging the resources and expertise available, significant strides can be made in alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development across the nation. The Zanokhanyo Agricultural Cooperative and the NDA’s involvement offer a shining example of such cooperative efforts, setting a high standard for future projects to follow.
