THE FUSE

Deputy Minister Nokuzola Capa has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving household food security by handing over gardening implements to subsistence farmers in the uMshwathi Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal. The initiative forms part of the National Department of Agriculture’s Food Security at Household Level Programme, which aims to empower families to produce their own food and reduce hunger in vulnerable communities. The handover reflects a practical investment in household agriculture by providing the tools needed to establish and maintain productive home gardens. As food prices continue to place pressure on many South African households, programmes that encourage self-sufficiency have become increasingly important. By supporting subsistence farmers with essential gardening equipment, the department is creating opportunities for families to improve their nutrition, strengthen their livelihoods and contribute to sustainable community development.