Eastern Cape MEC for Agriculture Nonceba Kontsiwe has handed over working tools aimed at strengthening the local economy through increased food production and expanded opportunities in arts, crafts, and clothing manufacturing.
During an event held in Zwelitsha Village, Matatiele, on Wednesday, Kontsiwe handed over two hand-held tractors to Matatiele-based cooperatives that are led by youth and women, along with 30 industrial sewing machines, a pottery wheel, and a free-standing slab roller.
The initiative forms part of the department’s drive to empower women, youth and people with disabilities, by supporting small enterprises and developing farmers.
The department has invested R198 000 for hand-held tractors, which Kontsiwe said will provide much needed means of production for emerging farmers, while creating job opportunities and alleviating poverty.
The Matatiele handover also marked the launch of a pilot programme that will see farmers across all districts assisted with the 14 hand-held tractors procured by the department.
Kontsiwe said she was inspired by the number of young people entering the agricultural sector, adding that she was hopeful that other young people will follow suit.
“Tractors are in high demand but very expensive, so we explored hand-held tillers. With these machines, it is easy to cover large tracts of land. We are piloting this programme, and I am happy that young people appreciate the tools. We hope communities across the province will embrace them,” the MEC said.
She emphasised that the department wanted to enhance food security with programmes, such as Ilima Lokulima that encourages people to get together, plant their gardens and eradicate poverty.
One of the beneficiaries, owner of Shiya’s and Son enterprise, Luvo Mxhakaza (28), said the hand-held tractor will significantly improve productivity on his four-hectare vegetable farm.
“This will assist me a lot in planting, ploughing, and removing weeds. I used to rely on spades and forks, but this machine will make my work easier and inspire me to grow more vegetables,” Mxhakaza said.
Mxhakaza, who began farming in 2022, employs at least three people during planting and harvesting seasons, whilst selling vegetables to hawkers and supermarkets in Matatiele.
In addition to the agricultural equipment, the department invested R504 224 in industrial machines, a pottery wheel and a free-standing slab roller that benefitted 16 enterprises comprising 25 beneficiaries across the Alfred Nzo District.
Kontsiwe said the sewing and industrial machines were meant to help improve garments and products quality produced by mostly women-owned clothing and textile enterprises.
“My dream is to see their clothes being sold by reputable clothing stores,” she said.
Ntombizodwa Lithole, owner of Mthimkhulu Enterprise, welcomed the industrial and overlocker sewing machine, saying it will help improve the quality of work and meet the growing demand.
“I have been battling to keep up with the demand, but now the machines will be a relief. I will also be able to hire someone to assist me, and for that I am grateful to the department,” Lithole said.
The department said these interventions are designed to boost the production of grain, vegetables and livestock production; increase food security; and promote growth in the clothing and textile sector as sectors that focus more on development of farmers and rural small businesses. – SAnews.gov.za
