In a significant move to bolster rural communities through livestock improvement, over 1 120 learners from eThekwini and Umkhanyakude Districts in KwaZulu-Natal will embark on a youth skills development programme in June.
This initiative, a collaboration between amakhosi and the KwaZulu-Natal department of agriculture and rural development (KZN DARD), aims to equip young people with vital business skills to grow youth-owned enterprises.
Integrating the youth
According to the department, contracts have been signed and tools of trade distributed to the participants, marking the official launch of the programme.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC of agriculture and rural development Super Zuma welcomed the learners, highlighting the importance of youth involvement in agriculture, especially in the province where unemployment is high. Zuma said the programme is managed in partnership with the Agribusiness Development Agency (ADA).
The selected participants will receive training in various disciplines including water and wastewater treatment, plant and animal production, nature conservation, and new venture creation.
“In addition to the skills development programme, the department has taken significant steps to enhance rural livestock quality. Ten traditional leaders within Umkhanyakude received bulls to aid in the genetic improvement of local herds, aiming to produce higher quality meat that can better compete in the market,” the department said in a statement.
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Investment will breed innovation
Zuma emphasised the provincial government’s commitment to advancing the agricultural sector, particularly in rural areas. He highlighted the progress already made by his department and its ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life and the economic well-being of farmers.
“We welcome the young blood into the programme and we are certain that they will bring innovative ideas that will continue to ensure food security while creating profitable sustainable businesses.
“We are also grateful to traditional leadership in KZN for working with us towards realising our vision of establishing agricultural firms. This is the only way that we can return the economy into the rightful hands,” Zuma said.
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