IT is time people realise that economic well-being is in their own hands and on their own doorstep.
They should stop complaining about the government’s inability to create jobs for them.
Speaking at the sweet potato processing information day held last week at the Ngwelezana Hall, Senior Agricultural Scientist at the KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Hlengiwe Ngubane urged local farmers to exploit opportunities available in the agricultural sector to feed themselves.
‘We must do away with a mentality that says the economy is Johannesburg. That is not true. The economy is right here in uMhlathuze, in you own homes, in your own hands and in the soil.
‘We have seen people accusing the Department of Agriculture for doing nothing for them, yet many have not even approached us for assistance. You must remember that you can’t get it while you are sitting in a corner,’ she said.
She appealed to communities and emerging farmers residing in Ngwelezana and surrounding areas to organise themselves into cooperatives.
‘We have also seen many of these community projects failing owing to the lack of passion.
Cooperatives must unite and work together. Remember that no-one is living in an island and there is strength in numbers.’
Ngubane congratulated local farmers who received their certificates after completing their short courses in sweet potato processing, saying they have shown the way.
ALSO READ: Amangwe Village self-help women groups are stepping up
‘Through this course you have been skilled on how to alleviate poverty in your own homes. You have been taught how to convert sweet potato into sweet potato juice, curry, chips, jams, biscuits and soups. Use those skills to empower your communities.’
According to Ngubane, a research conducted by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) showed that sweet potato is one food produce that has the ability to boost immune systems of children infected with HIV/Aids.
‘Sweet potato is one of the energy food groups full of vitamins which fights diseases. There is a big market for this food product. It is up to us to make it work,’ she said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
