Africa-Press – Eswatini. Farmers in Mafutseni are set to benefit from a new John Deere tractor worth E845 000 that is expected to create new job opportunities for the local community.
The state-of-the-art equipment was funded through the Tinkhundla Rural Development Fund (RDF) and was officially handed over to the Imphilolendze Multipurpose Cooperative in a ceremony held earlier today (Friday).
The Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Sikhumbuzo Dlamini officiated the handover event and emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities. “Today’s handover is a testament to the government’s focus on improving the livelihoods of our farmers. This tractor will not only enhance your productivity but will also bring new opportunities for job creation and economic stability in the community,” Dlamini said.
The new tractor is expected to provide local residents with opportunities for employment both during the farming season and in off-peak times. As Mgcibelo Dlamini of the Imphilolendze Cooperative explained, the tractor will be used for more than just farming.
“In addition to ploughing during the farming season, we will use the tractor for transporting goods such as sand. Furthermore, it will be available for rentals, providing additional job opportunities for members of the community,” he said.
Mafutseni’s Member of Parliament, Sabelo Mtsetfwa, who has long advocated for such development in the area, expressed his excitement.
“Before being elected as your MP, I always saw other communities benefiting from such initiatives. To now be part of bringing this opportunity to Mafutseni fills me with pride. This tractor will serve as a stepping stone to further development and employment in our community,” Mtsetfwa said.
The new equipment will also provide local residents with an opportunity to become skilled operators, creating a demand for job training and expanding the labor market. As Chief Ngonkhulu Mabuza noted, “This tractor is a valuable asset for the community, not only for farming but also for its potential to create jobs through its use in business ventures like transportation and rental services. It is a vital resource that will improve the livelihoods of our people.”
Jabulani Mthembu, spokesperson for the Imphilolendze Multipurpose Cooperative, shared his optimism about the future. “This tractor will transform the way we farm and significantly increase our yields. But more importantly, it will help create jobs, whether in farm operations or in the business side of the tractor’s use.”
Chief Mthokozisi Nkosi also highlighted the broader economic impact, stating, “This is a long-awaited blessing for Mafutseni. The creation of jobs through the use of this tractor will have ripple effects throughout the community. People will have more income and opportunities, which will contribute to the overall prosperity of our region.”
The handover ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to not only enhancing agricultural productivity but also fostering job creation in rural areas. The tractor is expected to play a crucial role in diversifying income streams, supporting local businesses, and equipping residents with new skills.
This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to promote sustainable rural development by providing essential resources that contribute to job creation and economic self-sufficiency. The government’s support for the acquisition of modern farming tools, like the John Deere tractor, aligns with its vision of transforming rural communities into thriving economic hubs.
With the reliable and efficient John Deere tractor now in the hands of the Mafutseni community, local leaders and residents are hopeful that this is just the beginning of many more job-creating ventures in the area.
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