KZN government declares war on poverty

THE plight of poverty-stricken households and communities, particularly in rural areas, was the primary focus of the provincial government during the launch of the multi-planting season.

KZN Premier Thami Ntuli and Agriculture MEC Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa resolved to bring forth an agricultural revolution and ensure KZN goes green.

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Speaking at last week’s provincial launch, which will be expanded to the various districts across KZN, Ntuli said, “We are envisioning a green province with crops and vegetables. The farms that are lying fallow and underutilised must be brought back to full operation.”

Ntuli further emphasised the importance of extension officers working hand-in-hand with communities to enable a better flow of agricultural activities.

“Extension and veterinary services need to work hand-in-hand with our communities so they enhance primary animal healthcare, animal productivity and animal husbandry,” said the premier.

Echoing the premier’s words, MEC KaMadlopha-Mthethwa said the success of the multi-planting season will be measured by the visibility of greenery in the province.

“If we don’t see green vegetables and crops along our highways, we will have failed the people of the province,” said KaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

During the launch, both the premier and MEC introduced new farming techniques to boost food security in KZN.

Some 50ha of land was cultivated under the mechanisation programme for beneficiaries, and was coupled with the distribution of 150 bags of 50kg base fertilizer and 75 bags of 50kg top dressing fertilizer.

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