THE FUSE

The Free State Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs has taken another step toward strengthening food security in local communities through a targeted support programme held in Sasolburg. The initiative, led by MEC Elzabe Rockman, focused on empowering households and small scale growers with practical resources to improve food production at household level. The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to reduce poverty by encouraging self reliance through agriculture. Access to seeds and basic gardening tools can make a direct difference for families that depend on small food gardens for daily meals. The event highlighted the department’s continued focus on practical interventions rather than short term relief. Communities in Metsimaholo Municipality attended the distribution with strong interest and participation. The approach reflects a wider strategy of building sustainable food systems across the province.