Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, is set to address the media on Tuesday, 27 August 2024, to disclose the extent of the damage caused by recent veld fires in the province.
The media briefing, scheduled for 10am at the DRDAR Amathole District Office in East London, will provide critical details on the destruction of grazing land, livestock, agricultural infrastructure, and the livelihoods of farmers.
MEC Kontsiwe will also outline the necessary interventions to prevent future devastating fires, emphasizing the importance of farmer and community-led initiatives.
Furthermore, the MEC will announce the opening of the annual application window for the Department’s farmer support programs, which commence on the same day. Eligible farmers can apply for various forms of assistance, including agriculture infrastructure, livestock improvement schemes, crop production, blended finance schemes, and food security programs.
The briefing aims to provide a comprehensive update on the situation and the Department’s response to support affected farmers and communities.
