MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi Conducts Oversight Visit to Agri Park and Engages Farmers in eMbalenhle

The MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), Ms Khethiwe Moeketsi, conducted an oversight visit to the Agri Park Project in Secunda. The visit formed part of the department’s efforts to monitor progress in government-supported agricultural initiatives and strengthen engagement with local farmers.

During the visit, MEC Moeketsi met with beneficiaries of the Esparanza and Zimisele Projects at the AgriPark in Ward 14, eMbalenhle. The interaction provided a platform for farmers to share their experiences, achievements, and challenges since joining the programme.

Beneficiaries outlined the progress they have made through departmental support, which included training and capacity-building programmes. Many of the farmers proudly displayed their Certificates of Competence, obtained after completing agricultural training supported by DARDLEA. The farmers noted that these programmes had significantly improved their production and management skills. They are now able to supply fresh produce to major retail outlets such as Boxer and Spar, while others have expanded their operations by supplying chickens to the Nkanyezi Poultry Project. MEC Moeketsi commended the farmers for their commitment and urged them to continue improving productivity and quality standards to meet growing market demand.

While progress has been made, the beneficiaries also highlighted challenges that affect their operations. These include theft, security concerns, and inadequate infrastructure such as toilets and changing rooms needed for biosecurity compliance. The MEC acknowledged these concerns and assured the farmers that the department would work with relevant stakeholders to address them. She emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and security to ensure the sustainability of agricultural ventures within the AgriPark.

After the AgriPark visit, MEC Moeketsi proceeded to eMbalenhle South Hall where she met with local farmers and community members. Her address focused on the importance of food security, youth participation in agriculture, and creating sustainable livelihoods through farming. She encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices that can increase yield and reduce post-harvest losses. The MEC also handed over food garden starter packs to support households in starting or expanding backyard food gardens.

The oversight visit reaffirmed DARDLEA’s commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector in Mpumalanga. By supporting farmers with training, inputs, and infrastructure, the department continues to promote food security and local economic growth. MEC Moeketsi concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to empowering smallholder farmers and ensuring that projects such as Esparanza, Zimisele, and the AgriPark continue to deliver measurable impact within communities.