Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal: A hundred smallholder farmers in the remote Jozini region of KwaZulu-Natal are sowing the seeds of a brighter future thanks to a collaborative initiative that will enable them to become suppliers of herbs and spices to global consumer goods giant Unilever.
The Jozini Smallholder Farmer Programme, a partnership among the national Department of Agriculture (DOA), Unilever South Africa, and the KwaZulu-Natal provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), aims to enhance the livelihoods of local farmers while promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the area.
The participating farmers have completed comprehensive training aligned with national agricultural standards, equipping them with both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required for successful herb and spice cultivation. For farmers like Zinhle Manzini, the programme has been transformative. “Through the programme, I’ve gained important skills for nurturing crops, preparing soil, identifying issues, and taking necessary actions to support crop growth,” she explained. “I’m happy that Unilever is assisting us by providing access to marketplaces to sell our produce, helping to prevent financial losses.”
In a tangible demonstration of support, the farmers also received a tractor, and a drying tunnel was unveiled, symbolising the resources being invested in their success.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, speaking at the launch, underscored the critical role of collaboration in addressing South Africa’s challenges. “Partnerships are very important… we recognise that if we try and do things on our own, we won’t get far, but if we work together, we can go far,” the Minister stated, emphasizing the spirit of “Ubuntu” that underpins such initiatives.
Justin Apsey, CEO of Unilever South Africa, highlighted the broader impact of the programme. “This initiative will not only improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also contribute to a more sustainable agricultural sector,” he said. “This is a capacity-building initiative empowering and alleviating unemployment while providing a decent life in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal.”
The programme’s focus extends beyond immediate economic benefits, aiming to create lasting employment opportunities, enhance the skills of local farmers, and promote environmentally sound agricultural methods. By empowering these small-scale agriculturalists, the initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the economic growth and overall development of the historically marginalised Jozini region. It represents a tangible step towards integrating rural communities into the mainstream economy and building a more resilient and inclusive agricultural sector.
