KwaZulu-Natal’s agricultural sector is taking the lead in fighting crime that threatens the province’s farming communities, with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spearheading collaborative efforts to tackle rural crime.
By Maile Matsimela, Digital Editor at African Farming
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s MEC, Ms Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, has joined forces with the Department of Community Safety and Liaison in an executive authority’s engagement with stakeholders to devise a strategic plan going forwards.
Numerous agricultural entities and cooperatives have expressed concerns that they are at risk of closure because of the high levels of crime in their areas. The agricultural sector is facing its own fair share of challenges, with issues such as farm attacks and the theft of livestock, farm equipment and fresh produce still hindering progress.
Call For Community Collaboration In Rural Areas
MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa emphasised that communities need to collaborate with crime-fighting structures to tackle all social ills affecting farming areas. “Together, we can find solutions and eliminate the ills facing our communities. We need to understand that there is no Messiah who is going to solve our problems, but we have to be the volunteers of crime prevention structures because crime is a societal issue that affects all of us,” she said.
“I am pleading with you to be part of the solution to the societal problems,” kaMadlopha-Mthethwa added, urging communities to embark on a journey of making positive change in their farming areas.
International Investment Opportunities At Risk
The KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thami Ntuli, highlighted the strong demand from international markets for the province’s agricultural products, including fresh produce, crops, meat and dairy. “When I meet ambassadors from different countries, they consistently express interest in investing in KwaZulu-Natal because of our favourable climate conditions. This is why I urge us all to work together in combating crime, so that investors can confidently bring their investments into our province,” said the Premier.
Technology And Partnerships Drive Agricultural Crime Prevention
The leadership has embraced the use of modern technological innovations, including drones, as effective tools to combat crime in the agricultural sector.
MEC KaMadlopha-Mthethwa further called on representatives from the business sector, education and interfaith organisations to actively participate in agricultural initiatives. She encouraged them to apply for funding opportunities available via the Department’s website, social media platforms and agricultural offices across the province.
