As part of continued efforts to tackle crime affecting KwaZulu-Natal communities, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development's MEC, Ms Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, joined forces with the Department of Community Safety and Liaison in an Executive Authority's Engagement with Stakeholders to devise a strategic plan going forward. 

In addition to the high crime rates reported across various sectors, including murders, rapes, gender-based violence and femicide, numerous agricultural entities and cooperatives have expressed concerns that they are at risk of closure due to the high levels of crime in their areas. 

MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said that communities need to collaborate with crime-fighting structures to tackle all social ills. "Together, we can find solutions and eliminate the ills facing our communities. We need to understand that there is no Messiah who is going to solve our problems, but we have to be the volunteers of crime prevention structures because crime is a societal issue that affects all of us. I urge you all to embark on a journey of making a positive change in your communities. 

The agricultural sector is also facing its own fair share of challenges, issues such as farm attacks, livestock theft, stealing of farm equipment and fresh produce are still to this day, crimes that are hindering progress. "I am pleading with you to be part of the solution to the societal problems," said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa. 

KwaZulu-Natal Premier highlighted the strong demand from international markets for the province’s agricultural products, including fresh produce, crops, meat and dairy. “When I meet ambassadors from different countries, they consistently express interest in investing in KwaZulu-Natal because of our favourable climate conditions. This is why I urge us all to work together in combating crime, so that investors can confidently bring their investments into our province,” said the Premier.

kaMadlopha-Mthethwa further called on representatives from the business sector, education and interfaith organisations to actively participate in agricultural initiatives. She encouraged them to apply for funding opportunities available on the Department’s website and social media platforms, or by visiting agricultural offices across the province.

The leadership also embraced the use of modern technological innovations—including drones — as effective tools to combat crime in the agricultural sector.