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KZN PREMIER LAUNCHES 2025/2026 PROVINCIAL MULTI-PLANTING SEASON IN UNDERBERG

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Mr. Thamsanqa Ntuli, together with the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Ms. Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, officially launched the 2025/2026 Provincial Multi-Planting Season at eNhlanhleni in Underberg, within the Harry Gwala District Municipality.

This flagship agricultural programme forms part of the provincial government’s strategic response to the growing challenge of food insecurity. Recent data has revealed that KZN has the highest number of households facing inadequate access to food. The Multi-Planting Season is therefore a bold and proactive intervention to transform the agricultural landscape by supporting emerging and subsistence farmers, enhancing rural livelihoods, and ensuring long-term food security.

As a major boost to this initiative, Premier Ntuli unveiled state-owned tractors and other implements that will be deployed across districts to support land preparation and production. He also announced the rollout of a provincial seed multiplication programme, designed to increase access to high-quality seeds for smallholder and emerging farmers.

MEC kaMadlopha-Mthethwa reinforced the department’s commitment to agricultural transformation through its mechanisation support programme, which has already cultivated thousands of hectares of land in preparation for this planting season.

The Agribusiness Development Agency and Ntingwe Tea were among the exhibitors at the event. This participation showcased innovative agri-business models and value-chain development initiatives aimed at accelerating rural economic growth.

Author: Namhla Rwairwai.