With extensive experience in public administration, particularly as former Acting Head of Department at the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Jerry Mfusi brings a wealth of knowledge poised to drive the Agribusiness Development Agency to new heights.

"We are optimistic he will impart invaluable skills designed to revitalise the working environment and foster engagement. As the newly appointed acting CEO responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction and decision-making of the agency, I urge officials of the ADA to work closely with him to realise the agency's objectives and mission. These include supporting the growth of enterprises owned and managed by targeted groups along agricultural value chains through strategic partnerships," said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa regarding Mfusi's acting appointment. The announcement was made by the Department when it appeared before the Finance Portfolio Committee for the Budget Hearing.

Mfusi assumes his role at a time when the groundwork has been laid at the entity, merely six months after the MEC appointed a new board led by Chairperson Lucky Gumbi.

The ADA also functions as project manager for the Ntingwe Tea Estate in Nkandla and the Makhathini Irrigation Scheme in Jozini. Plans are underway to resuscitate the production of one of the world's teas - Ntingwe Tea Estate. Part of the roles and responsibilities Mfusi held previously within KwaZulu-Natal government include being the Acting HoD at the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Deputy Director General of Rural Development and more recently serving as the Acting CEO of KZN Farming Enterprise.

Commenting on his acting position, Mr Mfusi who holds a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Agriculture stated that part of his role involves strengthening the agency's capacity and ensuring it grows agribusinesses, "I would like to express my gratitude to the Department, led by MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa and the Board for appointing me to this acting position. The Department and the Board can be rest assured that we will initiate efforts to assist agribusinesses in achieving their objectives, which entails providing assistance and driving the transformation agenda in the sector."

Mfusi also vowed to ensure that entities such as the Ntingwe Tea Estate are resuscitated to achieve profitability in the foreseeable future, saying that plans are afoot to resuscitate the production of one of the world's teas.

The entity was established by the KwaZulu-Natal government to support the development of emergent black commercial farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs in the province. Its primary objective is to address economic inequalities within the agricultural sector in the province.

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