The Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR), Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, today (30 April 2019), met with MECs, mayors, and councillors from the various provinces to wrap up the yearly progress report on the implementation of Outcome 7 programme of action and to share information and plans.
In her opening address to the MinMec, the Minister said that as stakeholders implement land reform in the country, there should not a delay in planning but there was a need to quicken the steps in the implementation of the programme. She said that there was a need to fine-tune the way the work is being done.
"Communities are waiting for change, they are waiting for services. We need to start coordinating our work as national, provincial and local government. We need to have synchronisation from all spheres of government. We need to commit ourselves to implement plans we set ourselves to do," said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane.
"A lot of work is happening on people's land without their knowledge, that needs to end and we can only end this by working together with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA)," said the minister.
She continued to say: "Our people cannot remain poor forever. We need to impact the lives of ordinary people, so as to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. Things cannot change on their own; it is in our hands to change the lives of our people; therefore, we need commitment from all spheres of government".
"As a country, we are fighting the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. We should; therefore, ensure that our greater and deliberate efforts are directed and channelled towards economic empowerment of women and youth," urged the Minister.
In conclusion, the minister indicated that the Department acquires assets in the form of implements, equipment and mechanisation and gives them to communities as start-up packages to kick start them into production. She further said that the value of the effort that the Department puts can only be realised and lead to proper beneficiation if there is further international and domestic investment through properly consolidated partnerships, mentoring and skilling, opening access opportunities and markets.
Amongst the MECs who attended the MinMec were MEC Norman Shushu from Northern Cape and MEC Xolile Nqatha from Eastern Cape.
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Issued by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform: Ms Phuti Mabelebele – (Spokesperson) | Tel: +27 12 312 8909 | Cell: 076 402 7521 or | Email: Phuti.Mabelebele@drdlr.gov.za: Eviction Toll-free Number 0800 007 095
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