Story: Zimasa Mbandezelo
MEC for the Department of Agriculture, Nonceba Kontsiwe, in partnership with Intsika Yethu Local Municipality, officially handed over a newly built sheep shearing shed and eight Dohne Merino sheep to the community of Mahlubini Village.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, MEC Kontsiwe emphasized that the initiative forms part of government’s broader plan to fight poverty and unemployment in rural communities. “This is a big step in boosting farming and ensuring food security. Farmers’ lives will never be the same again,” said Kontsiwe.
“Sheep farming is particularly valuable because it generates profit throughout the animal’s life through wool production, and continues to provide value even after slaughter as a source of meat. Many households rely on farming to send children to school and to put food on the table, which is why government continues to support and encourage agricultural development,” she added.
Dr. Godongwana, Chairperson of the Mahlubini Wool and Grain Growers, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the new facility. “We are very happy to finally have a proper shearing shed. In the past, we used to shear our sheep on the ground, which led to dirty wool and lower prices. Buyers would reject our wool or offer less money because of its condition. That will change now,” said Dr. Godongwana. He also committed to taking good care of the donated Dohne sheep, which he said will help improve the quality and sustainability of their herd.
Mayor of Intsika Yethu Local Municipality Councillor Khanyisa Mdleleni praised the Department of Agriculture for its ongoing efforts to uplift rural communities. “This is part of government’s commitment to supporting farmers and improving agricultural strategies, especially in areas where unemployment is high,” she said.
