LIMPOPO – The MEC of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, urged young aspirant farmers to take agriculture seriously, as she spoke during her visit to the Vhumatshelo Crop Farming at Tshikhwani on Friday.

Vhumatshelo Crop Farming is a cooperative comprising youths who have come together to pursue farming.

Kekana emphasised the importance of assisting young people, particularly those from previously disadvantaged rural areas, in their farming endeavours.

She highlighted the significant role emerging farmers play in food production, and encouraged young people to get involved by starting gardens in their backyards.

“We appreciate and value the contribution of young people to the economic activities of the province,” said Kekana.

She expressed disappointment that most food that could be produced locally is often imported from overseas, and she stressed the need to change this trend.

“We are happy and inspired that we still have youths like you who are now equipped to face the modern world of agriculture. This is not enough. Do not stop here, but continue studying to keep up with modern farming trends,” she said.

Macray Ramuhala, the leader of Vhumatshelo Crop Farming, encouraged others to take agriculture seriously, saying efforts in farming were a clear indication that the joint fight against poverty was bearing fruit.

“Our agricultural sector and the community benefit from farming. It is important to improve the knowledge base of agriculture because agriculture forms the backbone of the economy. Food security and economic growth are the result of productive agriculture around the world,” said Ramuhala.

He farms spinach and tomatoes, which he sells to a big supermarket and to members of the community, and he currently employs six people.