The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa visited the Ezolimo Chamber of Cooperatives on Tuesday, 02 December 2025 at the Mhlabontengayo Sports Field in the eZwelibomvu area under the eThekwini Metro. The visit marked a significant moment for the agricultural sector, as farmers showcased the power of unity and collective progress.

The Ezolimo Chamber brings together a network of cooperatives dedicated to strengthening collaboration, improving production capacity and expanding market opportunities. Members of the cooperative produce a diverse range of vegetable crops—including potatoes, spinach, cabbages, cucumbers and other fresh produce—which supply multiple markets and supermarkets across KwaZulu-Natal.

Through this integrated model, farmers are able to share resources, exchange skills and operate with improved efficiency, thereby contributing more meaningfully to the province’s agricultural value chain. This development aligns directly with the MEC’s ongoing call for farmers to form cooperatives as a pathway to sustainable growth and resilience.

Expressing her pride in the farmers’ efforts, Hon. kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said: “Today I am filled with hope. What I see here is a reminder that when farmers unite, they do more than plant seeds—they plant a future. Cooperatives are not just about shared work; they are about shared dreams, shared strength and shared prosperity. I have been urging our farmers to come together and seeing this unity taking shape on the ground, gives me confidence that our agricultural sector is moving toward a brighter and more sustainable future,” said MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

The MEC reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting cooperatives through training, infrastructure, market access initiatives and continuous technical support to ensure that farmers thrive collectively.