The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa conducted Operation Siyahlola on Wednesday 08 July 2026 at Vuka Supply Farm in uMbumbulu within the eThekwini Municipality. During her visit, she was impressed by the transformation of a previously non-viable school into a thriving agricultural enterprise, which she believes should be replicated in other districts.

The purpose of her visit was to assess agricultural activities and support provided to local farmers. As part of the department's farmer support programme, the site received a tractor and 10 tunnels, which have been erected to boost production.

The Department has also donated manure and all-season fertilizer to boost production. “Operation Siyahlola is about seeing for ourselves that government resources are reaching the people on the ground. We are here to ensure that this equipment and inputs are used to increase food production and create jobs for our people in uMbumbulu." said MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

She also issued a directive to the District Directors that this project should be a model to be used in other districts where unused schools can be repurposed for agricultural projects. “We are observing a great value on our R3.6 million investment. This project features nearly all the necessities a farmer would need. The beneficiary - Mr Shangase has also installed his own borehole. What impresses me most is the conversion of a previously non-viable school into a thriving agricultural business, something that other districts should replicate. With the number of available classrooms, these can be repurposed for agricultural activities as storage facilities and workshops. The Agribusiness Development Agency has identified a suitable beneficiary. This project will become a flagship programme for others to follow."

Five agricultural graduates have been placed at the project to provide technical support and to ensure the sustainability of the project. The beneficiary Mr Mondli Shangase who's the Director of Vuka Supply Farm has expressed his gratitude to the department for responding to his plight, "We are thankful to the Department of Agriculture for all the items that have been handed over to us. These include 10 tunnels, a tractor for our 16 hectares of land, and farming implements. This will help us a lot. The department has also assisted us with agricultural graduates. We have hired 10 people from the local community. “We will do our best to keep the business running. Our goal is to fight food insecurity and reduce unemployment in this area. Our fresh produce and grain products are already being supplied to big retailers around Durban," concludes Mr Shangase.