Supporting Sustainable Agriculture in Mhlontlo Local Municipality

by
1 min read
s u

The Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC Nonkqubela Pieters recently hosted an Agriculture Sector Imbizo in the AmaMpondomise Kingdom of Eastern Cape. The event aimed to empower the local community with the necessary tools and support for sustainable agricultural practices.

Providing Resources

During the Imbizo, a tractor, garden implements, and seedlings were handed over to King Matiwane, fulfilling MEC Pieters’ commitment to provide the resources needed for the community’s agricultural efforts.

Services on Wheels

The Imbizo also offered services on wheels, including animal health education, vaccinations, and castrations. The DRDAR’s Livestock Improvement Scheme supports the OR Tambo Municipality, which has the second-highest population of sheep and the highest cattle numbers. This initiative aims to enhance the commercialization of agriculture in the District Municipality, as outlined in the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP 2022).

Livestock Development

During the 2021/22 financial year, DRDAR invested R6 million for sheep and R8 million for cattle across the province. The District farming community received assistance in the form of 305 sheep and 55 cattle, aimed at improving wool and meat production from communal sheep and cattle. In Mhlontlo, farmers were provided with 121 sheep and 36 cattle, valued at R1.3 million.

To further support wool sheep farming productivity, DRDAR constructed ten shearing sheds (5 in Tsolo and 5 in Qumbu) between 2018 and 2022, costing R10.9 million. Additionally, livestock development in the Municipality has seen the repair and desilting of 9 stock dams (R5,494,373), renovation of 7 diptanks (R900,000), construction of four boreholes (R1,585,048), and the building of a feedlot at Mthozela location (R2,193,624).

Crop Production

Crop production has also been a primary focus in Mhlontlo. From 2018/2019 to 2021/2022, DRDAR invested over R20 million, covering 4,578 hectares of land. In the last four years, crop-producing farmers were further supported by fencing off 94km of grain fields across 13 villages, with R4,093,866 in funding.

Household Food Security

In the realm of household food security, DRDAR has supported 3,600 households in the past four years with vegetable production inputs, including seedlings, fertilizer, and chemicals, at a cost of R7.2 million. Rural enterprises have also received backing, with 11 industrial machines delivered in the last financial year and the completion of an industrial site for packaging bottled juice at ward 6.

The Agriculture Sector Imbizo at AmaMpondomise Kingdom demonstrates the commitment of the DRDAR, MEC Nonkqubela Pieters, and the Eastern Cape government to support local agricultural communities. By providing resources, infrastructure, and educational opportunities, they aim to empower farmers, promote sustainable practices, and foster economic growth in the region.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

c l
Previous Story

Empowering Africa’s Climate Resilience through Enhanced International Climate Finance

c r
Next Story

Operation Shanela: A Milestone in the Fight Against Crime in KwaZulu-Natal

Latest from Blog

firefighters community outreach

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Firefighters Bring Joy to Children

In December 2024, firefighters brightened the holidays for children in care facilities by delivering wrapped gifts with big smiles. Partnering with Pick n Pay, they spread joy and gratitude after receiving support during a tough summer of wildfires. Each visit was a heartwarming reminder of kindness, as firefighters became symbols of generosity, teaching kids about empathy and community spirit. This joyful initiative shows how simple acts of giving can light up lives and strengthen bonds in the community.

justice gender-based violence

A Persistent Nightmare in Embalenhle: Justice Served

In Embalenhle, South Africa, a dark nightmare unfolded as Themba Prince Shongwe committed terrible crimes, including rapes and murders, from 2016 to 2018. The community lived in fear as he targeted innocent girls, causing heartbreak and loss. Finally, justice was served when he was found guilty and sentenced to nine life terms in prison, bringing relief to the grieving families and a sense of safety back to the community. This victory shines a light on the importance of standing against violence and working together to protect the vulnerable.

street lighting community safety

Illuminating Cape Town: Lighting Up Safety and Community

Cape Town’s streetlight program shines brightly as it manages over 245,000 lights, making the city safer and more inviting, especially during the festive season. The community plays a vital role by reporting issues and staying alert, working together to protect these lights from theft and vandalism. With a focus on sustainability, the city is switching to energyefficient LEDs, reducing its environmental impact while keeping streets welllit. This initiative not only lights up the city but also brings people together, creating a warm and safe atmosphere that showcases Cape Town’s beauty at night.

housing development community empowerment

A Beacon of Hope: Gugulethu’s New Housing Project

The Gugulethu Infill Housing Project is bringing joy and hope to the community of Gugulethu, South Africa, by building 52 new homes for deserving families. This celebration marks a fresh start for many, especially the elderly and middleaged residents who finally have a safe place to call home. As they move in, they not only gain shelter but also a sense of belonging and stability. This project symbolizes the community’s strength and resilience, showing that together, they can overcome challenges and build a brighter future. The new homes are more than just buildings; they represent dreams coming true and a promise of better days ahead.

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.