The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government led by Premier Thami Ntuli today, Thursday 4 July 2024, handed over resources worth over R 6 million to the The Umzimkhulu Wool Growers Associations in the Harry Gwala District. These support which includes rams, grazing fence and dip is aimed at stimulating the growth and sustainability of rural economies provide resources and infrastructure to rural communal businesses.

The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thami Ntuli together with the MEC for Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD), Ms Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, handed over Dohne Merino breeding rams to 14 Wool Growers Associations within the Harry Gwala district.

By providing high-quality rams to these associations, the government aims to improve the genetics of local sheep, to enhance wool quality and increase production efficiency.

The Premier highlighted that the occasion marked a significant step in the government's efforts to assist associations and cooperatives dealing with wool production in the District.

“The KwaZulu-Natal deliberate investment in the livestock, infrastructure and training, will certainly yield positive results in enhancing the profitability of wool producers, ensuring access to markets, sustainable growth and development in rural areas. This initiative aligns with broader economic goals of increasing agricultural output and fostering economic inclusivity in the region” said Premier Ntuli

The Premier added that the handover of the rams demonstrated the government's commitment to supporting rural agricultural development in the Harry Gwala District.

MEC kaMadlopha Mthethwa highlighted that the programme would be expanded across the province. She emphasized its potential to drive rural economic development by creating jobs while improving livelihoods for local farmers.

“This move underscores the provincial government's commitment to agricultural growth and economic inclusivity. We are going to assist all our farmers, in particular women and the youth to start their agricultural businesses. Our goal is to ensure that no family goes hungry and we are committed to creating sustainable rural agricultural firms. We will strive to open markets for the farmers both in the District and the Province but also abroad.” said KaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

The local traditional leadership was elated by this government’s investment in their locality. On behalf of Inkosi Sethuse, Induna Mbotho, expressed gratitude for the consistent support sheep farmers have been receiving from the department over the years. Mbotho said families had benefitted immensely from all the programmes designed to fight poverty.

“Our shearing sheds are our source of income, the department has built a number of them for various wool growers associations. We hope to have more in the area to increase our profits,” said Mbotho.

He urged local farmers to be responsible for the livestock and the infrastructure that the community received.