The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Mrs. Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, visited Impendle outside Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, 15 September 2026 to check on projects funded by the Department.

MEC KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, first visited NDO Agriculture, owned by young farmer Thando Khumalo. The Department assisted Thando with funding to install irrigation and two tunnels for her vegetable project. She now grows and sells potatoes, chillies and spinach in Impendle and Pietermaritzburg.

Furthermore, MEC visited a farming cooperative at Upper eMakhuzeni. The Department helped them with fencing poles and will further assist them with seeds for yellow maize and dry beans.

Speaking to members of the cooperative, the MEC said she is happy to see that the Department's money is being used properly and is making a real difference.

"I have always ensured that whenever I offer financial assistance to community projects, those projects are viable. I am happy with the first project that was assisted with R500 000. The second project was given fencing material to the value of R780 000. It is also encouraging to see committed community members working voluntarily for the project," said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

Imbumba YamaKhuze Cooperative leader Thulasizwe Mthembu thanked the MEC and her officials for the assistance that has helped their farm to thrive.