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9 June 2010

The Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms Tina Joemat-Pettersson together with the MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Administration, Mr Meshack Malinga invite members of the media to the official launch of the nationwide Tractor Mechanisation programme in Marapyane, Mpumalanga, on Thursday, 17 June 2010.

The nationwide Tractor Mechanisation programme is a marked departure by government from providing gardening implements but instead, affording black farmers a realistic chance to improve production, increase yields and gain access to domestic and global markets.

The tractors will be distributed to the three districts of the province (Ehlanzeni, Gert Sibande and Nkangala) in order to expand the department's "Masibuyele Emasimini" programme and will ensure that subsistence and small holder farmers receive the necessary support to optimally use the land. This delivery will set communities on the path to food security.

President Jacob Zuma is expected to deliver a keynote address during the launch.

The event will take place as follows:

Date: Thursday, 17 June 2010
Venue: Marapyane Sport Ground
Time: 09h00

For more information contact:
N Vutula
Tel: 012 319 7348
Fax: 012 319 7832
Cell: 082 523 4904
E-mail: CDCI@daff.gov.za

Mr Victor Nkwalase
Tel: 013 766 6048
Cell: 082 684 5159

Issued by: Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
9 June 2010