Bushula to lead Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development(YARD )
Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC Nomakhosazana Meth called on youth in the agricultural sector to be united because government needed “feel” their existence through the impact they make in food security.
“We want to see the youth vibrancy and visibility. Actually, we want to feel that you are indeed involved in food security. There are many opportunities in this industry as both the provincial and national governments are saying agriculture is the game changer. The future is bright when the youth is in the forefront and I am proud of you. Now it is the time for youth to take leadership in this sector,” she said.
The MEC was speaking during the launch of the provincial Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (YARD) structure held the NYDA premises in Mthatha where youth from all district gathered to elect a provincial leadership.
She said she was also proud that the young people that “are walking the talk and are already creating jobs.”
“The energy and knowledge of these youngsters will bring change in this sector. Youth should be able to make contribution to issues that affect their future hence I am happy to see you. It is critical to equip youth with skills to create jobs. We do not want young people with business that is not sustainable hence we will assist you,” she said to loud applause.
Chief Director for District Coordination Hamilton Ntsabo said DRDAR “saw it fit” to organise young people in the sector to form a structure so that they can be “united with the vision of ensuring food security.
“We are building the nation by ensuring young people are united so that we can hear and understand their needs and their contribution so that we provide the much needed support collectively. We are serious about creating young generation of farmers and this structure will ensure that,” he said.
The structure, led by award-winning youth farmer from Stutterheim, Mlungisi Sonwabile Bushula is tasked with stimulating the thinking of youth to acknowledge and take agriculture, forestry and fisheries as a commercial venture.
They are mandated to expand youth participation in the sector and facilitate the provision of support including agriculture extension and advisory, mentorship as well as entrepreneurial and business skills.
Bushula, who is into forestry and game farming, said the youth “feels honoured and privileged” that DRDAR has organised them so that they can have a structure that will “unlock the potential and support ” young people.
“I am happy that, all of us in this committee are active in agriculture so we will be showcasing our work to encourage others to join in.
“I want to make this sector to be attractive and vibrant among young people so that we can change the current demographics that are currently dominated by the elderly.
“We will empower the existing projects so that we can encourage young people to see agriculture as a career and lucrative business ,” he said.
The YARD committee is made of young people that are in poultry, crop, vermiculture, piggery, vegetables, forestry, game farming and livestock