**KwaZulu-Natal**: One hundred smallholder farmers in the Jozini region have participated in a herb and spice cultivation training programme. This initiative, backed by Unilever and local government, aims to equip farmers with essential skills and promote sustainable agricultural practices while boosting local economies.
In a significant development for local agriculture, one hundred smallholder farmers in the Jozini region of KwaZulu-Natal have participated in a training programme focused on herb and spice cultivation. This initiative, which aims to enable these farmers to supply products for Unilever’s supplier localisation programme, is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Agriculture (DOA), Unilever South Africa, and the KwaZulu-Natal provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).
According to the DOA, the training provided to the farmers encompassed a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA) unit standards, including both practical and theoretical components related to herb and spice farming. Zinhle Manzini, a smallholder farmer from the Jozini area, was quoted saying, “Through the programme, I’ve gained important skills for nurturing crops, preparing soil, identifying issues, and taking necessary actions to support crop growth. It has also taught me the steps involved in the farming process.” She expressed gratitude for Unilever’s involvement, noting how the company’s support would help farmers access marketplaces, thereby reducing the risk of financial loss. Manzini encouraged younger people and women to participate in such initiatives, highlighting the potential for farming as a viable income source.
As part of the programme’s support, each farmer received a tractor, and a drying tunnel was unveiled, symbolising the resources and infrastructure being provided to the farmers.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen emphasised the importance of collaboration to tackle the agricultural challenges facing South Africa. “Partnerships are very important… we recognise that if we try and do things on our own, we won’t get far, but if we work together, we can go far. Partnerships go beyond just something on paper, or what we say is a priority. Partnerships are rooted in our core philosophy as South Africans – Ubuntu,” stated Steenhuisen.
Justin Apsey, CEO of Unilever South Africa, reiterated the potential impact of the initiative, stating, “This initiative will not only improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also contribute to a more sustainable agricultural sector. This is a capacity-building initiative empowering and alleviating unemployment while providing a decent life in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal.” The programme is designed not only to enhance the skills of local farmers but also to create employment opportunities and advance sustainable agricultural practices.
Overall, this collaborative effort is expected to significantly contribute to economic growth and development in the Jozini region, demonstrating a commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and promoting sustainability in agriculture.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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