MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi Highlights Agricultural Development During Exco Outreach in Nkomazi

Agricultural development and rural empowerment remained at the centre of discussions as Mpumalanga MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi led the Department’s senior management during the first day of the Executive Council Outreach Programme in the Nkomazi Local Municipality. The visit focused on strengthening agricultural projects that improve food security, create economic opportunities and support sustainable farming within local communities. Among the key stops was the Vegetables Tunnels Project located at the residence of Chief Mjokwane II of the Siboshwa Traditional Council in Block A. The outreach provided an opportunity for government leaders to engage directly with community members, assess the progress of existing agricultural initiatives and identify areas where additional support is required. It also reinforced the province’s commitment to expanding agricultural production while ensuring that rural communities benefit from practical development programmes.

One of the main highlights of the visit was the inspection of the Amakhosi Vegetables Tunnels Project, which has been established to promote vegetable production and strengthen local food security. Vegetable tunnel farming has become an increasingly important method of agricultural production because it allows farmers to grow crops in more controlled conditions throughout much of the year. These structures help protect crops from harsh weather while improving water efficiency and reducing production risks. Projects such as this provide valuable opportunities for communities to increase food production while generating income through the sale of fresh produce. The visit allowed departmental officials to assess the project’s progress while engaging directly with local leadership about its future development.

Chief Mjokwane II expressed his appreciation to the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) for supporting the Amakhosi Vegetables Tunnels Project. He acknowledged that the initiative has the potential to benefit the surrounding community by encouraging agricultural activity and creating opportunities for local residents. During discussions with the MEC and departmental officials, the Chief also raised concerns about the growing challenge of land encroachment. He emphasised the need to protect valuable agricultural land from unplanned development so that it can continue to be used productively for farming and food production. Protecting agricultural land remains an important priority as South Africa seeks to improve food security while preserving natural resources for future generations.

MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi acknowledged the financial pressures facing government but reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting agricultural development wherever possible. She indicated that despite existing budgetary constraints, another vegetable tunnel should be installed to expand the project’s benefits and increase production capacity for the community. The proposed expansion would provide more opportunities for local farmers while contributing to improved household food security and economic activity. By investing in additional agricultural infrastructure, the department aims to strengthen community resilience and encourage greater participation in farming. The MEC’s remarks demonstrated that even within limited financial resources, strategic investments can continue to create meaningful benefits for rural communities.

During the visit, MEC Moeketsi also highlighted the province’s planned FoodMarket Squares initiative, which is expected to improve market access for farmers across Mpumalanga. Access to reliable markets remains one of the biggest challenges facing many small scale and emerging farmers, who often struggle to sell their produce at fair prices. The planned FoodMarket Squares are intended to provide structured spaces where farmers can connect directly with consumers and buyers while expanding their business opportunities. Improved market access can increase farm income, reduce food waste and encourage greater agricultural production throughout the province. By strengthening local value chains, the initiative has the potential to support economic growth while promoting locally produced agricultural products.

As part of the outreach programme, the MEC also donated climate change friendly Spekboom trees to support environmental sustainability. Spekboom is widely recognised for its ability to absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide while requiring very little water, making it well suited to South Africa’s climate. Planting Spekboom contributes to environmental conservation while helping communities adapt to the effects of climate change. The donation reflects the department’s broader commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural and environmental practices alongside food production initiatives. Integrating conservation efforts into rural development programmes helps ensure that economic growth and environmental protection work together to benefit future generations.

The departmental delegation later visited the Tonga Veterinary Office, where MEC Moeketsi assessed service delivery and operational standards. During the visit, she emphasised the importance of proper planning in ensuring that veterinary services are delivered efficiently and effectively to farming communities. Veterinary services play a critical role in protecting livestock health, preventing disease outbreaks and supporting the overall success of the agricultural sector. The MEC also stressed the need to improve housekeeping standards within departmental facilities, noting that well maintained offices contribute to better working environments and more effective public service delivery. Her message reinforced the importance of professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement across all areas of departmental operations.

The first day of the Executive Council Outreach in Nkomazi demonstrated the Mpumalanga government’s commitment to strengthening agriculture, supporting rural communities and improving public service delivery. MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi’s visit highlighted the importance of investing in practical farming projects, protecting productive agricultural land and creating better opportunities for local farmers to access markets. Her support for expanding the Vegetables Tunnels Project, promoting sustainable environmental practices through Spekboom donations and improving veterinary services reflects a comprehensive approach to rural development. The engagement with traditional leadership also underscored the value of collaboration in addressing community priorities and advancing agricultural growth. As Mpumalanga continues to invest in initiatives that support food security, environmental sustainability and economic development, projects such as these are expected to play an increasingly important role in building stronger and more resilient rural communities.