The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in KwaZulu-Natal, led by the Hon. MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, visited the Church of the Holy Ghost in Hammarsdale as part of the Department's efforts to boost the One Home One Garden programme. Since her appointment, the MEC has expanded the Programme to include schools, clinics and other public institutions who benefit from the Department's Ambitious Seed Multiplication Programme, produced by the Department's Agricultural Research Institutions across the province.

The Church has various agricultural projects, including vegetable and animal production. During a meeting with the church's hierarchy, MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa commended the church for its initiatives aimed at addressing poverty through agricultural activities and a soup kitchen for indigent families. "We have a number of research institutions that produce about 10 million seeds a year, which enables us to help boost food production and address food security for many families. Churches can play a significant role in alleviating poverty through agricultural initiatives. This and other churches, make significant contributions to food security."

"We are committed to working with churches, providing services such as mechanisation and extension officers. I encourage churches to establish projects that promote self-sustainability while creating opportunities for their followers."

ISSUED BY THE KWAZULU-NATAL DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT