Sustainable Farming in Mpumalanga: MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi Calls for Environmental Compliance and Climate-Smart Practices

Mpumalanga DARDLEA MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi has called on farmers and agribusinesses to fully comply with environmental laws, describing compliance as a moral responsibility that supports both the land and long-term productivity. Speaking at the Nkangala Environmental and Waste Circular Economy Business Breakfast in Emalahleni, she engaged with stakeholders from agriculture, mining, tourism, circular economy SMMEs, waste recyclers, and local non-profits to discuss practical strategies for sustainable economic growth. MEC Moeketsi highlighted that agriculture, alongside mining and tourism, is a key pillar of the province’s economy, and that responsible farming practices are essential to mitigate climate change, conserve resources, and boost rural employment. She stressed that environmental compliance should not be seen as a burden but as an opportunity to improve productivity, protect natural resources, and strengthen the resilience of farming communities. Farmers who adopt sustainable practices today will be better positioned to face climate variability, reduce operational risks, and expand their market opportunities.

During her address, MEC Moeketsi encouraged farmers to integrate climate-smart strategies into their operations, including water conservation, soil health management, and responsible waste handling. She emphasized that pollution, waste, and the impacts of climate change can be transformed into opportunities for job creation, small business development, and stronger local economies. Farmers can partner with government programs to access technical support, training, and resources that help improve productivity while reducing environmental impact. By embracing these practices, farms can lower costs, diversify income through sustainable enterprises, and strengthen their communities. MEC Moeketsi’s message underlines that agricultural growth and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand to ensure the province remains productive and resilient over the long term.

To provide practical insights, MEC Moeketsi and delegates visited Columbus Steel near Middleburg to observe how the company manages waste and implements circular economy principles. Although an industrial plant, the visit demonstrated valuable lessons for farmers, including the benefits of recycling, repurposing by-products, and minimizing waste. Similar approaches can be applied on farms through composting organic waste, capturing and reusing water, and reducing chemical runoff. Implementing such practices not only protects the environment but can also reduce costs and create new revenue streams, such as selling recycled materials or sustainable products. Farmers who learn from these examples can strengthen their operations, make their businesses more competitive, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable agricultural sector.

MEC Moeketsi also highlighted the importance of collaboration between farmers, local government, and industry bodies to achieve sustainable growth. By working together, farmers can access support for small business development, training in climate-smart farming techniques, and opportunities to participate in circular economy initiatives. She encouraged farmers to see environmental compliance as a way to protect natural resources, improve production efficiency, and generate employment in rural areas. This collaborative approach ensures that sustainable farming practices are not isolated efforts but part of a wider strategy to strengthen Mpumalanga’s agricultural sector.

The Nkangala Environmental and Waste Circular Economy Business Breakfast and subsequent plant visit reinforced the message that farming and sustainability are inseparable. MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi urged farmers to embrace environmental compliance, adopt climate-smart practices, and explore opportunities for innovation and job creation through waste and resource management. By acting responsibly and partnering with government and industry, farmers can secure the future of their operations, improve profitability, and contribute to resilient rural communities. The province’s agricultural growth depends on practical, hands-on approaches that balance productivity with environmental protection, ensuring that farms remain sustainable, competitive, and beneficial to all.