The Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Development supplied seeds to a Non-Profit organization (NPO), Botshabelo Black Farmers Development (BBFD), in Soshanguve Block H, to start an Agricultural Project, on Youth Day 16 June 2020.
Ms Morakane Mosupyoe, MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, said this was a way to commemorate youth day in a practical manner while also advocating for backyard gardens to curb the threat of food insecurity amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
Although not entirely happy with the overall youth participation in Gauteng, Ms Mosupye said youth participation is a responsibility which the government should attend to.
“So far I am impressed with what I have seen here and I am happy that the youth already have a government infrastructure even though it still needs some improvements.
“In addition to what the department has already been doing with backyard gardens for food security purposes, we will also be incorporating the youth into to our programs,” Ms Mosupye said.
The BBFD’s Chairperson, Mr Mohau Mengwai, said the NPO has been successful in launching a potential agriculture and environmental project of Ama2000 Ama-Active youth-based organization called “Help A Friend Out (NPO)” at Soshanguve Ward 34.
‘‘Together with the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, Agriculture and Rural Development we provided seeds and seedlings of a variety of veggies such as cabbage, spinach, onion and beetroot to kick start the first phase of the project. More support in the form of training and revival of the tunnels shall follow.
‘‘We thank all Volunteers who invested their energies and time in today’s activities amidst the cold weather and Covid-19 challenge,” he said.
The NPO thanked the MEC for the initiative and called on funders to continue supporting them with seeds and implements. They also thanked Community Activists in supporting the Green Revolution aimed at fighting food insecurity, hunger and malnutrition.
