Emerging wool producers in Umzimkhulu have received a shot in the arm following the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government’s assistance aimed at enhancing wool quality and increasing production.

This as Premier Thami Ntuli handed over resources’ worth over R6 million to Umzimkhulu wool growers associations in the Harry Gwala District.

The support, which includes rams, grazing fence and dip, is aimed at stimulating the growth and sustainability of rural economies and providing resources and infrastructure to rural communal businesses.

Ntuli and Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) MEC, Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, handed over Dohne Merino breeding rams to 14 wool growers associations within the Harry Gwala district.

Speaking at the event, Ntuli said that by providing high-quality rams to the associations, government aims to improve the genetics of local sheep, to enhance wool quality and to increase production efficiency.

The Premier highlighted that the occasion marked a significant step in the governm
ent’s efforts to assist associations and cooperatives.

‘The KwaZulu-Natal government’s deliberate investment in the livestock, infrastructure and training, will certainly yield positive results in enhancing the profitability of wool producers [and] ensuring access to markets, sustainable growth, and development in rural areas.

‘This initiative aligns with [the] broader economic goals of increasing agricultural output and fostering economic inclusivity in the region. The handover of the rams demonstrates government’s commitment to supporting rural agricultural development in the Harry Gwala District,’ Ntuli said.

KaMadlopha-Mthethwa said the programme will be expanded across the province, emphasising its potential to drive rural economic development by creating jobs, while improving the livelihoods of 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 star
t 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,’ KaMadlopha-Mthethwa said.

The local traditional leadership expressed excitement at the move.

Speaking on behalf of Inkosi Sethuse, Induna Mbotho acknowledged the consistent support sheep farmers have been receiving from the department over the years.

Mbotho noted that through government support, families have benefitted immensely from all the programmes designed to fight poverty.

‘Our shearing sheds are our source of income, [and] 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.

Mbotho also urged local farmers to be responsible for the livestock and the infrastructure that the community received

Source: South African Government News Agency