The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, led by Hon. MEC Super Zuma, convened a farmer engagement at eMpangeni in November 2023 as part of Operation Sukuma Sakhe.

During that visit, farmers were able to engage with the Hon. MEC on many concerns and issues that they were experiencing. 

Some of the major concerns highlighted were the high unemployment rate, water scarcity for livestock consumption, irrigation of fields, rehabilitation of dip tanks and infield roads which will improve access to markets and allow farmers to transport their produce.

In a bold move to better the lives of livestock farmers and the farming community at large, Hon. MEC Super Zuma on Friday 09 February 2024, handed over the Port Dunford dip tank. 

The Port Dunford dip tank will assist over 1600 livestock farmers and the entire local community by minimizing distances to the dip tank and reducing soil degradation caused by cattle paths.

Speaking during the handover, MEC Zuma encouraged farmers to take care of their livestock.

"It is critical for farmers to keep their livestock in good condition so that they can generate substantial profits and trade their livestock easily. Livestock farmers frequently complain about the cost of dip tank chemicals thus, as a Department, we will also supply dip tank chemicals to guarantee that farmers dip the livestock appropriately," said MEC Zuma.

MEC Zuma further went on to hand over the Ndesheni borehole and irrigation system to young farmers in Ndesheni, Ward 13. The construction of this borehole and irrigation system will boost farmers' diversification of produce, thereby enhancing food security while creating job opportunities for residents.

MEC Super Zuma also proceeded to interact with the Ndabayakhe community members, to create awareness on Departmental programmes, and to further understand some of the challenges faced by these communities at the service delivery level.

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