Parolees and probationers get training in agricultural skills in eMbalenhle

The Department of Correctional Services and Evander Community Corrections recently partnered with the Gert Sibande Department of Agriculture to provide agricultural skills and training to parolees and probationers of eMbalenhle and surrounding areas.

The training is part of the poverty alleviation initiative programmes to help parolees and probationers to sustain themselves.

Parolees and probationers gathered at a clinic in Ext 19 to become empowered with knowledge of starting and maintaining a large garden in two sessions.

The first session was theoretical work, in which parolees learnt about different groups of crops, companion cropping for crop rotation and sowing guidance.

The second session solely focused on the methods to start and maintain a vegetable garden.

“The training is a foundational step to ensure you can do your jobs correctly and efficiently. It is also a way to keep you up-to-date with the latest information, trends, and best practices for your roles,” said Thandi Mkhonza, an agricultural training officer for Gert Sibande District.

She said through workshops like these, parolees can gain valuable knowledge on irrigation, pest control, soil management, and crop selection.

Sabeth Makgetha of Evander Community Corrections said: “Agriculture can help reduce poverty, raise incomes and improve food security.”

Fanafuthi Hadebe, an ex-offender who volunteers to maintain the garden at the clinic, said the training was informative. It also made him realise he used the incorrect methods whenever he planted.

“With the knowledge I gained, I can transform the idea into a business because I can sell the products to local markets where the community purchase their food,” said Hadebe.

At least 12 rows of cabbage seedlings and carrot seeds were planted by the parolees and probationers, demonstrating the training was a success.

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