In a major drive to promote sustainability and rural development, the department of agriculture, Unilever South Africa, and the KwaZulu-Natal department of agriculture and rural development launched the Jozini smallholder farmer programme. The initiative aims to empower smallholder farmers across the region by providing skills development, access to markets, and sustainable farming opportunities.
Speaking at the launch event, minister for agriculture John Steenhuisen noted the critical role of collaboration in achieving the government’s development goals.
“Partnerships are very important, and that is why number one in my priorities as minister, published in our annual performance plan, is Partnerships For Growth. We recognise that if we try and do things on our own we won’t get far, but if we work together, we can go far together,” said Steenhuisen.
Investing in sustainable agriculture
“These partnerships for growth speak to the national government’s priorities. President [Cyril] Ramaphosa has told us all that the priorities of the government at a national level are creating jobs, inclusive growth and fighting poverty.
“There is no better department to do those three things than our department of agriculture and our agricultural family. Partnerships go beyond just something on paper or what we say is a priority. Partnerships are rooted in our core philosophy as South Africans – ubuntu.”
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The Unilever Jozini Project represents a significant investment in sustainable agriculture and community development. Focused on cultivating herbs and spices, the project aims to harness local resources and indigenous knowledge to build a sustainable supply chain while generating economic and social benefits for the local community.
MEC for agriculture and rural development, Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, pledged her department’s support for the farmers.
“I am happy to see the partnership between the government and Unilever helping our farmers. We always appreciate the support from the National Department of Agriculture and Minister John Steenhuisen who is always available to help us,” said kaMadlopha-Mthethwa.
“Graduates must share the knowledge and skills learned and gained during the programme.”
The programme is designed to enhance the skills of 100 smallholder farmers from villages such as Ndumo, Makhane, Mahlabeni, and surrounding areas. Training covers all aspects of herbs and spice cultivation, preparing participants to eventually supply Unilever’s production chain.
Justin Apsey, CEO of Unilever South Africa, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting sustainable livelihoods. “We are proud to support the Jozini Smallholder Farmer Programme, which aligns with our commitment to sustainability and empowering local communities,” he said.
For many farmers on the ground, the programme has already made a tangible difference. Zinhle Manzini, one of the participating smallholder farmers, shared her personal experience.“Through the programme, I’ve gained important skills for nurturing crops, preparing soil, identifying issues, and taking necessary actions to support crop growth. It has also taught me the steps involved in the farming process,” said Manzini.
“I’m happy that Unilever is assisting us by providing access to marketplaces to sell our produce, helping to prevent financial losses. I encourage young people and women to join such programmes to learn about farming, which can be a viable source of income.”
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