The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Mr Thami Ntuli, on Friday 31 July 2026 unveiled new offices of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Nkandla, much to the joy of local farmers. About 19 % of households in King Cetshwayo District, including Nkandla, face moderate to severe hunger according to the recent General Household Survey. Agriculture is key to improving food security in the area. The Premier said these new offices will bring much-needed services closer to farmers to support mechanisation, irrigation, and climate-smart farming.

The new administration block boasts modern offices, meeting rooms, and farmer support facilities. Its construction was coordinated by the sister Department of Public Works and Infrastructure as the implementing agent of the provincial government.

The DARD, led by MEC, Mrs Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa invested R43 million in the building, which also resulted in the creation of over 60 local jobs during construction. This also includes 45 jobs mainly for youth and women through Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

Speaking at the official handover ceremony where a plaque was unveiled, the Premier commended DARD for responding to the need to house officials in a worker-friendly and conducive environment. The old structure was completely demolished and a new one built, which took about two years to complete.

The Premier said, "This building is more than just offices. It shows our commitment to bring services closer to our people and to support the farmers who feed our province."

Addressing farmers at the nearby Nkandla Municipality Stadium, DARD MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa said: "A building alone does not feed anyone. A ribbon does not plough a field. What matters is what happens inside these walls when you resume your duties as officials. I expect this office to be the engine room for food security for households, schools and hospitals. This is where officials must give support to smallholder and commercial farmers with mechanisation, irrigation and access to markets."

KaMadlopha-Mthethwa also urged officials to use technology and sustainable farming methods to help local farmers deal with climate change.

"We also expect the vulnerable groups such as the youth and women in agriculture because we cannot grow the sector if half the population is left behind. This is where climate smart farming must be encouraged by the extension practitioners to the local farmers so that our green fields of Nkandla and surrounding areas remain green for our future," concludes MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.