MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa Oversight Week Visit To Ithembelihle Lsen School And Gdard Enterprises

MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa led an important week of oversight activities in Gauteng. The programme focused on food security, youth skills, and enterprise growth. Each visit showed how practical support helps communities build stronger agricultural systems.

The oversight week started with a meaningful visit to Ithembelihle LSEN School in Primrose. Learners at the school grow vegetables and raise chickens. The activities form part of an agricultural empowerment programme. The work teaches responsibility and gives learners real production skills. The vegetable gardens and poultry units supply food and support classroom learning. The school uses the programme to build confidence and introduce learners to future careers in agriculture.

The programme continued with a site visit to Maneli Pets. The company produces pet food and plays a growing role in agro processing. GDARD supported the enterprise with feed manufacturing equipment. The support helped the company expand output and improve efficiency. The business employs local workers and adds value to agricultural raw materials. The visit showed how small and medium enterprises can grow when they receive equipment and training.

Sungula Farm was the next stop. The farm runs a productive vegetable enterprise. GDARD equipped the farm with processing machinery, cold rooms, and a refrigerated truck. The tools help the farm maintain quality from harvest to delivery. The enterprise employs local workers and strengthens food production in the area. The visit highlighted how infrastructure support improves storage, transport, and market access.

The visits demonstrated GDARD commitment to food security, youth empowerment, and enterprise development. Each enterprise showed measurable progress. The school builds young producers. The pet food company adds value to raw materials. The vegetable farm improves local supply chains. Together they support a more resilient agricultural sector in Gauteng.

The oversight week confirmed the value of strategic support. Skills programmes, equipment investment, and enterprise partnerships help communities grow stronger agricultural systems. Through these efforts Gauteng continues to expand food production and create opportunities for residents. Growing Gauteng together.