MEC Nakedi Kekana Calls for Urgent Action to Boost Agricultural Growth in Limpopo

Yesterday, MEC for Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, sent a strong message to contractors and stakeholders: it is time to step up and deliver. Her call comes as part of ongoing efforts to accelerate agricultural growth and development in the province. During a recent oversight visit to Seimela Piggery and Ground Stone Group, MEC Kekana assessed the progress of key agricultural projects and identified both challenges and opportunities within the sector. While acknowledging that some projects have experienced slow progress, she emphasized the importance of timely delivery and effective use of government funds. MEC Kekana highlighted that returning unspent funds to the Treasury while communities wait for service delivery is unacceptable and must be addressed.

At Seimela Piggery, MEC Kekana observed the operational hurdles faced by small-scale and emerging farmers. She stressed that targeted support and oversight are critical to ensure these initiatives achieve their intended impact. The visit also highlighted the potential for success when projects are managed effectively, demonstrating that proper planning, resource allocation, and commitment can yield positive outcomes for local communities. Contractors and stakeholders were urged to adopt innovative approaches and adhere strictly to project timelines. MEC Kekana’s message was clear: accountability and efficiency are non-negotiable in the drive to grow Limpopo’s agricultural sector.

Ground Stone Group, a commercial horticulture farm, served as an example of resilience and innovation during the visit. Despite challenges such as rising input costs and climate change impacts, the farm has implemented mitigation strategies to sustain productivity and maintain profitability. MEC Kekana praised these efforts, noting that adaptive practices and forward-thinking solutions are essential for the long-term growth of the sector. She encouraged other farms and stakeholders to learn from successful models like Ground Stone Group to overcome operational obstacles. The MEC reiterated that innovative approaches are key to building a robust agricultural economy in Limpopo.

As her oversight visit continues tomorrow at Thulamela Local Municipality, MEC Kekana remains committed to monitoring and ensuring project success. Her visit aims to hold contractors accountable, provide guidance to emerging farmers, and ensure that agricultural initiatives meet their objectives. She stressed that the department’s priority is not only project completion but also ensuring tangible benefits for local communities. Through active oversight, MEC Kekana intends to strengthen project execution and boost productivity across Limpopo.

The visits and engagements reflect MEC Kekana’s broader strategy to drive agricultural growth and rural development. By emphasizing accountability, efficiency, and innovation, the department aims to unlock the province’s full agricultural potential. Stakeholders and contractors are reminded that timely delivery and effective use of resources are crucial to achieving sustainable growth. MEC Kekana’s proactive approach signals a new era of oversight and commitment, with the ultimate goal of transforming Limpopo’s agriculture sector and improving the livelihoods of its communities.