Social Development Deputy Minister, Ms Maria Bongi Ntuli has today, 25 July 2013 handed over a tractor and truck to 'Letsema Lethata ka Beng vegetables project' in Monakato Village, next to Rustenburg. This is part of the department’s mandate to support emerging small-scale farmers and community based organisation in an attempt to contribute to fight the triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality in the country.
“Our country and Africa as a whole need this kind of project if we are to successful fight the challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality in our communities,” said the Deputy Minister Ntuli. In her address, Ms Ntuli warned strongly against greed and internal conflicts, saying members should shy away from such “because these are the main cause that led to the downfall of many government funded project, such as your initiative”.
“This project is a true testament that working together, as government and the community, we can do more and successfully fight hunger and unemployment in our areas,” she said.
The official handover ceremony follows a recent visit by the Deputy Minister Ntuli at the vegetable garden, where she promised to donate a tractor to assist the Letsema project to grow. Social Development agency, the National Development Agency (NDA), donated a truck worth R250 000 to the project, whilst a new tractor in its accompanying equipments was provided by the North West Provincial Department of Social Development, Women, Children and People with Disabilities.
Letsema le Thata Ka Beng is a food security project based in Monakato Village, 50km north of Rustenburg in the North-West province. It was started by 10 unemployed local women in 1995, who shared passion in alleviating poverty and the rate of unemployment in the village. Today, the project has grown to an extent that its membership has increased from 10 to 15 members, of which 96% of the composition is women. Fifteen (15) people from the local community are now employed and earn an income contributing to skills development, social relief at home, such as basic household necessities like food and schooling of children.
Enquiries can be directed to:
Mr Vuyisile Ngesi
Cell: 078 800 4475
Sello Tang
Cell: 072 774 8784
