Following concerns raised by community members over the Tompi Seleka College of Agriculture’s operations and employment of labourers by contractors, the Limpopo MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, led a meeting with the local forums and stakeholders to defuse the tensions last Thursday.

The engagement was held at the Matlala Traditional Council premises in Ga-Rakgoadi Village to strengthen relations and prevent disruptions that could negatively impact teaching and learning at the institution.

According to Kekana, the dialogue underscored the significance of synergy between the provincial and local governments as well as traditional leadership in addressing the challenges of the community.

In response to the concerns ventilated, Kekana demanded that officials work together with traditional leaders and the Ephraim Mogale Local Municipality to ensure challenges are addressed.

Mayor Given Moimana, joined by local councillors, also formed part of the engagement and committed that a clear programme of action on communication will be implemented to prevent future tensions resulting from misunderstandings.

Kgoshi Rakgoadi of the Matlala Traditional Council lauded Kekana’s intervention and further thanked the traditional leadership for resolving the disputes involving the college.

Mpho Mashamba, head of the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, reaffirmed the department’s commitment to partnership-driven solutions.