The two projects formed what MEC Tlhape said was part of Premier Supra Mahumapelo’s vision in dealing with societal issues affecting people on a daily basis.

“This is part of the action plan that the department has developed in order to contribute to the achievements of campaign.  We are committed to bring in development including skills. However we cannot do that forever that is why we need you to gain skills and begin to implement it.

“The markets are available for production. We have signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) regarding supply of produce to their various centres,” Tlhape said.

She added: “We are going to do the same with our hospitals. So, we expect you to produce more products so that these markets keep us as a supplier. There is a need for extension and advisory services to all farm workers cooperatives.”

The MEC said that her department is committed to ensure that living conditions of the people improve.

She also visited Group 10 farm workers cooperative and planted seedlings in order to set path and encourage the cooperative to continue with the operations.

A farm worker, Lydia Thage, 45, commended Tlhape for the good work she is doing.

“I am part of 8 members and operate as a farm worker. Our cooperative specialises in fruits and vegetable production. We are grateful now because we are recognised. We will work hard to grow our business,” she said.

Thage’s cooperative received a financial boost of R496 000 back in 2007 from department. This assisted them to purchase centre pivot with cable, hail nets, plastic for tunnels, 2 broiler houses with accessories, boiler, water pump, electric motor, fertilizer, fertilizer tank, cable to broiler houses.

-TDN

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