Transformation programmes for KZN farmers launched in Ixopo
A young commercial farmer in Ixopo says while the ball is rolling, more momentum is needed for black farmers to achieve the success of their white counterparts.
Lulamile Ndlangisa is among those attending the launch of the VULA and Radical Agrarian Socio-economic Transformation programmes at the Morningside Stadium in Ixopo.
Under the programme black farmers, especially those from disadvantaged rural communities, are given priority when it comes to assistance for procurement purposes.
Agriculture MEC, Themba Mthembu, says his department supports RASET as it empowers African farmers. pic.twitter.com/cTiDMUWzzp
— Steve Bhengu (@SteveBhengu) June 27, 2017
Ndlangisa hopes the programmes will address some of the challenges they face.
"Now that I'm starting, I have been helped with some of the information but not everything. Some of the information I discover on my own so hopefully the RASET programme will address some of the issues that haven't been addressed.
"A lot of these agricultural business initiatives in rural-based areas are government initiated and not necessarily farmer initiated, which also hampers the growth of those businesses. Once government has injected some capital there and they leave after some time - there is no sustainability in the business," he said.
MEC Ravi Pillay addresses hundreds of Ixopo locals gathered at a giant marquee for the launch of VULA and RASET programmes. pic.twitter.com/YOFqLD1nW2
— Steve Bhengu (@SteveBhengu) June 27, 2017