Eastern Cape agri campaign teaches learners to grow their own food

The Empowering Learners Through Agriculture campaign, launched by the Eastern Cape department of agriculture, aims to uplift schoolchildren by teaching them about growing their own food.

Eastern Cape agri campaign teaches learners to grow their own food
Department officials hand over essential winter school uniforms and supplies to underprivileged learners.
Photo: Supplied
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The Eastern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Nonceba Kontsiwe, recently successfully concluded her back-to-school campaign under the theme Empowering Learners Through Agriculture’ in Hofmeyr.

The initiative aims to support underprivileged learners by delivering essential school supplies and promoting the establishment of school gardens.

Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Kontsiwe said the final event brought together Mzamomhle Primary School and Phakama High School, where learners, school governing bodies, local political leaders, and department officials gathered to mark the end of the campaign.

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“The decision to bring this campaign to this area started after I saw the condition of some of the learners. I am a firm believer that people must be treated equally and the results will show in their productivity,” she said.

Kontsiwe also said she was concerned about the ongoing malnutrition in the Eastern Cape.

“I am often bothered by reports of child malnutrition and poverty in the province. The reports suggest that this is not due to a lack of food supply, but rather because of inequality and structural issues,” she said.

She added that the campaign also aimed to instil a culture of food production in learners.

Local stakeholders voice support

Nomfunda Fuba, a member of the school governing body (SGB) at Phakama High School, told Farmer’s Weekly that the campaign would uplift learners.

“We say thank you for the gifts that we received from the MEC and her delegation. This will go a long way in motivating our learners to show interest in school and improve their attendance,” she said.

Phumeza Mafilika, principal at Phakama High School, told Farmer’s Weekly about the psychological and academic benefits of the initiative.

“Most learners in this area come from underprivileged backgrounds. As a teacher, when you are busy educating learners, they tend to observe material conditions. Not having basic necessities like their peers can affect their wellbeing and performance,” she said.

According to Kontsiwe, the campaign, which began in March and included visits to towns such as Ntabethemba and Ntambethemba in the Chris Hani District, concluded on a high note.

“It leaves behind a legacy of care, community involvement, and a renewed focus on agriculture as a tool for empowerment and food security,” said Kontsiwe.

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