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MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR), Nonceba Kontsiwe, will hand over a state-of-the-art shearing shed, agricultural tools, and industrial sewing machines to communities in the Joe Gqabi District today.
The handover event will center on the Rhodes Multi-purpose Shearing Shed, a modern facility set to benefit 40 livestock farmers by improving both the quality and quantity of wool production. Equipped with advanced infrastructure, including a dipping tank, portable small stock handling facilities, a wool presser, sorting table, classing bins, and water harvesting tanks, the shed marks a significant milestone in enhancing working conditions and productivity for farmers in the region.
Speaking about the project, DRDAR highlighted the importance of infrastructure development in creating opportunities for previously disadvantaged farmers. Since 2019, the department has invested R17.8 million in constructing 18 multi-purpose sheds in the Joe Gqabi District, and provincially, the investment includes 73 new shearing sheds and 81 multi-purpose sheds.
The event will also see the distribution of industrial sewing machines to 15 enterprises, representing 38 individuals. This initiative aligns with the DRDAR’s efforts to empower rural women, youth, and people with disabilities. By providing resources to establish and grow businesses, the program aims to contribute to job creation and improved livelihoods.
Since 2017, the department has supported 976 clothing and textile businesses with R25.5 million in funding. For the current financial year, an additional R2.2 million has been allocated to assist 103 cooperatives across the province.
The MEC’s intervention underscores the DRDAR’s commitment to empowering rural communities and fostering sustainable economic growth. Members of the media are invited to witness the event and share the impactful stories of these empowered communities.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, 15 November 2024
- Location: Rhodes Multi-purpose Shearing Shed, Joe Gqabi District Municipality
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