AGRIC MEC KAMADLOPHA-MTHETHWA PLEDGES TO IMPLEMENT BENCHMARKING LESSONS

The Inter-Provincial Benchmarking Programme held in Germiston, Gauteng on 24 September 2024 between the KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng Provincial Governments was led by Premiers - Thamsanqa Ntuli and Panyaza Lesufi, respectively. Accompanying the KZN Premier was the Executive Council Members, Director Generals, Heads of Department and Senior Officials. The programme aims to enhance government effectiveness and equip the Department's Executives and officials with the requisite skills and knowledge of government systems, ultimately culminating in efficient service delivery.

MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, together with her Gauteng counterpart, Ms. Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, have focused their efforts on critical agricultural issues, including best practices to address food insecurity and using climate-resilient agriculture to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. "Politically, it is of paramount importance that those serving under the banner of the Government of National Unity convene under one roof to discuss and learn best practices in governance, ensuring clear policy direction and devising strategies to address the challenges plaguing our communities. As the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, we face a myriad of challenges, including the 30 percent US tariffs. Therefore, it is crucial that we come up with ways to access alternative international markets for our producers and alleviate the burden on our farmers," said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa at the sidelines of the two-day benchmarking programme, concluding today.