DARDLEA officials and some members of the Portfolio Committee during their oversight visit.
The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA), led by Acting Chairperson Life Monini, recently conducted an oversight visit to the Inkanyezi Group farming project and the Masina Piggery.
The visit forms part of the Taking Legislature to the People programme, which is taking place across the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality.
The visit aimed to assess progress, identify challenges, and evaluate the impact of government support on emerging agricultural initiatives.
At the Inkanyezi Group, Chief Director Nobuhlobo Mafu presented the project’s growth from a small backyard operation producing 2,000 broilers to a thriving enterprise. With land allocated by traditional leadership, the Department supported infrastructure development, including broiler houses with a capacity of over 21,000 birds. The project now accommodates 21,600 broilers and has secured water rights.
Since 2022, support has included an egg incubator, biosecurity fencing, a borehole, and the construction of broiler houses. An abattoir under development is expected to benefit both Inkanyezi and surrounding poultry farmers. The group supplies three tons of chicken weekly to the Kusile plant and local outlets, while funding from the National Empowerment Fund will assist in building a feed mill.
Beneficiary representative Lebo Dludlu expressed appreciation for the support received, highlighting a commitment to innovation and growth. Stakeholders, including government and community members, praised the project and encouraged continued local support. However, disruptions affecting progress remain a concern.
The Committee then visited the Masina Piggery, supported under the Masibuyele Esibayeni programme.
Beneficiary Masina, who struggled for years before receiving funding in 2021, now employs 10 people. Despite challenges such as stillborn piglets and limited market access, the project has improved his livelihood and enabled him to support his family.
Masina encouraged youth participation in agriculture and raised concerns about service delivery, including housing and healthcare.
The Committee urged communities to seize agricultural opportunities and called for continued departmental support.
The visit highlighted both progress and challenges, showcasing agriculture’s vital role in job creation, rural development, and economic empowerment.
