MEC for the Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Nomakhosazana Meth brought joy to the farmers of OR Tambo District Municipality when she handed over Covid-19 relief vouchers and seedlings.
The MEC was at Machibini village in Port St John’s where she also officially handed over a house donated by former SAA CEO and businessman Vuyani Jarana to Andiswa Macitshe after her plight was highlighted by provincial Health spokesman Sizwe Kupelo.
She pointed out that government was “excited” to see private sector assisting in communities because “government cannot every corner.”
Macintse, who couldn’t hold back tears, thanked “everyone” who has assisted her.
The vouchers were given to a total of 312 farmers from the district while 100 households received 200 seedlings of carrots, cabbage, spinach and onion.
One of the beneficiaries, Maziwinile Mpatu, expressed joy upon receiving the seedlings saying: “I love to plough my own vegetables because I love them while they are still fresh than buying them in the shops where they are not freshly picked.”
MEC said the Port St John’s area had “great potential” in vegetable production hence there seedlings were a good investment.