MEC Pieters urges rural farmers to create sustainable livelihoods out of farming
By Thozi kaManyisana
Newly appointed MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonkqubela Pieters
hit the ground running this morning when she visited farmers at Lucwecweni Village in Engcobo.
The MEC’s visit included attending a Farmer’s Day event graced by various commodity groups, farmers’ associations and agricultural enterprises.
Addressing farmers at the event, MEC Pieters said: “We cannot have people dying of hunger while we have land. Let us move away from ploughing for our own consumption, but let us explore the wealth creation side of agriculture.
“The department is here to assist you to progress and create sustainable livelihoods out of your produce,” she emphasised.
Acknowledging and recognising the presence of the private sector and how they were working with DRDAR to develop rural areas, the MEC said “government alone cannot completely change people’s lives, we need the private sector to assist.
“We are committed to work with all stakeholders from the traditional leaders, farmers, business people and all sectors that have interest in developing rural people.”
Farmer Lusanda Sizani who he aspires to become a commercial farmer said the farmers organised the day so that they can share knowledge and understand how government and other sectors seek to support the farmers.
“We are thirsty to plough the land and rear animals so that we can grow our economy.”