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13 March 2009

The Honourable MEC of Agriculture Gugile Nkwinti will conduct a massive handing over of 36 tractors accompanied by their implements and three combine harvesters with a combined value of R19,8 million.

These tools will service the Eastern and Western segments of the province, 13 tractors and two harvesters going to the Eastern while 23 tractors and one harvester will benefit the Western side. The provision of tractors to aspirant and emerging farmers is one of the department's pillars in the green revolution strategy, which is underpinned by the six pegs policy that requires the department to give farmers enabling tools and skills to full participate in agri-business.

The department has been stimulating economic growth and rural development through providing farmers with the fence for arable and grazing lands, revival of irrigation schemes, construction of stock water dams and dipping tanks as well provision of training to farmers. Livestock farmers has also benefited through the department's livestock improvement initiative where provision of bulls, rams, cows as well as vaccination of livestock is at the centre of activities and through these initiatives the department hope to improve lives of the people.

The massive hand over of the tractors and its implements next week culminates the hand over of tractors, dipping, bulls, rams, cows and other resources which have been taking in this passing financial year.

The MEC will on Monday, 16 March, 2009, hand over 13 tractors to the Eastern segment in the Khaya Majola sport grounds (Richardson Park) in Mthatha to service the OR Tambo, Alfred Nzo and Ukhahlamba regions (Eastern Segment)

On Tuesday, 17 March, 2009, he will hand over 23 tractors at Bhisho station to service Amathole, C acadu and Chris Hani regions (Western Segment)

Members of the media are cordially invited to grace these august events where they will be afforded opportunities to mingle and interview not only the MEC but the senior management of the department.

Enquiries:
Thozi Manyisana
Cell: 073 2633 754

Fikile Black
Cell: 082 578 1437

Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
13 March 2009