KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, paid a special tribute to the senior citizens of the province, describing them as the custodians of soil.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Senior Citizens Parliament on Thursday 01 October 2026 at Inkosi Msinga Mlaba Sport Complex in KwaXimba, west of Durban, the MEC said, "If there is anyone who has never abandoned agriculture, it is our grandmothers and grandfathers.

"When the young left for the cities, you stayed with the soil. When there was no tractor, you used your hands. When there was no fertilizer, you knew which kraal manure to use. You taught us that soil is not dirt. Soil is life, soil is dignity, soil is wealth, said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier said the senior citizens continue to be the backbone of agricultural in many rural areas."We were here at KwaXimba not so long ago when we met to find solutions to the impact of Foot and Mouth Disease, where we resolved that the Department must ensure the hiring of dip tank officers - Omadibhana.

"The offices of the Department of Agriculture are spread across the province. Rise up and come forward so that we can assist you. And I urge you to pass on the knowledge that life is in the soil," concludes the Premier.