Observing the lack of unity in crime-fighting while involved in agricultural projects motivated KwaDukuza Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairman Dr Mfuneni Zungu to step up to make a difference.
Taking on the role as chairperson in 2017, Zungu committed himself to addressing the rising crime rate in KwaDukuza, while acknowledging that a lack of proper communication had contributed to protests against the KwaDukuza police station.
His mission is to unite crime-fighting entities to effectively reduce crime.
“I am confident that we have now successfully forged strong relationships with all stakeholders, and no one is operating independently.
“I also took the initiative to ensure that the CPF is well-established in all wards across KwaDukuza. We can now collaborate as a cohesive team,” Zungu said.
“But while we have seen positive outcomes from numerous programmes and campaigns, there is still much work ahead.”
His journey in agriculture and rural development began with the Land Bank Community Outreach Project in 2004-2005.
This initiative provided specialised training in agricultural production methods, governance and business management.
He trained emerging farmers in beef, crop and vegetable production, food processing, nutrition, leadership and conflict management, as well as providing guidance to cooperatives.
Zungu’s commitment to addressing constraints in crop production led to a leadership position in the Tugela Ferry irrigation scheme from 2005 to 2007. There, he focused on creating farming organisations in eMsinga to stimulate agricultural growth.
Beyond farming, he also ventured into food supply chain management and became a trading agent in Durban and Johannesburg.
His innovative spirit led to the establishment of state-of-the-art greenhouses in the iLembe district producing a variety of crops and even wine, boosting local food supplies and economic growth.
As CEO of the uPhaphe Empowerment Trust, Zungu initiated rural development programmes, raised funds and facilitated cooperative mentorship and registration.
He is also managing director of Zunco Foods.
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