The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Mr. Super Zuma who addressed masses of people in KwaNongoma, northern part of KwaZulu-Natal said, “All communities need to have a garden to ease the burden of escalating food prices. MEC Zuma further said, "Government is willing to work with communities to ensure that people who are solely dependent on farming, save money and are able to buy other household needs. People can easily feed on produce from the garden to support their families and society."

While addressing the masses in KwaDabhazi, MEC Zuma said, "the recent increase in food prices makes it difficult for our people to keep up with food security and sustain livelihoods”

The Honourable MEC also raised the issue of water scarcity that has been an on-going challenge in this area, which is why the Department has constructed dams and boreholes in the area.

These services will play a huge role in ensuring that there is enough water for both human and animal consumption in the area. It will also assist residents implement the "One Home, One Garden" initiative.

MEC Super Zuma also put emphasis on challenges faced by livestock farmers in communal areas such as livestock theft, lack of infrastructure and high mortality rates due to animal diseases and parasites.

"It is undisputed that Animal Health care services provided by our Department, play a major role in ensuring that animals are given the optimum amount of care and treatment that is beneficial to their health at all times which is why we are building and revitalizing livestock infrastructure throughout the province" said Super Zuma.

The Department intends to roll out the communal livestock improvement programme in all Districts of KwaZulu-Natal through the utilization of the Yellow Plant and provide continuous animal health care support and services.

Enquiries: Mr Vusi Zuma on 082 419 2887 or Mack Makhathini on 076 965 5870.

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