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The MEC for Agriculture and Land Affairs hailed the local Chief for the active role he is playing in the development initiatives of his community. Addressing a community meeting in the Village of Mntonintshi outside Qumbu today, MEC Mamase commended Chief Mntonintshi for being an example of what the traditional leadership should be doing in uplifting the lives of their subjects.

Mamase cited that, for sustainable development to take effect, communities should be made to realise the potential of their area based on the available natural, capital and human resources. Referring to Eco-tourism potential of the village, Mamase cited traditional arts and crafts, cultural villages and cultural dances as tourism attracting activities with huge economic benefits. He also highlighted that the rondavel huts could be converted into guest houses for tourists in the area of Qumbu.

Mamase noted that Mntonintshi village is one of many villages in the O R Tambo District Municipality that are poverty-stricken. He said the Integrated Sustainable Rural Development program has targeted the O R Tambo district to address this state of affairs.

He went on to encourage the farmers in the village to organise themselves into commodity groups and farmers associations. Mamase said that the farmers associations would help to inform the government policy formulation and budgetary processes.

Mamase also issued a stern warning to the extension officers who are not accessible and readily available when their services are most needed by the farmers. "Get closer to the farmers even if it means that you stay and live in the village with them," Mamase warned.

Enquiries: Mike Ngwane 083 659 8435, Zama Mpondwana 082 450 5298

Issued by: Office of the MEC for Agriculture and Land Affairs, Eastern Cape, 17 May 2001