THE FUSE

KwaZulu-Natal is placing renewed focus on rural development by linking agriculture with community structures that already have deep local reach. During the Interfaith Symposium hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature at the uMthonjaneni Indoor Sport Centre, government leaders outlined a practical plan to expand food production at grassroots level. Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, serving as Acting Premier for the session, used the platform to call for stronger collaboration between government and faith-based organisations. The initiative, known as One Church One Garden, aims to convert underutilized rural land into productive agricultural spaces. This approach recognizes the influence and organisational strength of churches and other faith institutions. It also targets food security, job creation and local economic growth in one coordinated effort. The programme reflects a shift toward inclusive development that draws on community participation rather than relying only on state-led interventions.