By Thapelo Molefe
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will undertake a three-day oversight visit to the Overberg District Municipality in the Western Cape from Thursday to Saturday.
The visit will highlight government’s efforts to fast-track land reform, support community development initiatives, and promote cleaner, healthier urban and rural environments.
Mashatile will be accompanied by Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development Mzwanele Nyhontso, Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille, and Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo, among other senior officials.
The programme includes a tour of Klein Ezeljacht Farm, which produces apples, pears, grain, and livestock, and has received government funding through the Land Development Support Programme.
“This farm is a testament to the impact of government support on agricultural development and job creation,” said Minister Nyhontso.
Mashatile will also engage with farming sector representatives to assess farmer support services and discuss ways to boost agricultural productivity.
“Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, government is committed to addressing barriers to growth in the sector, such as limited access to funding and the impact of climate change on food security,” Mashatile said.
On Friday, the Deputy President will attend the Inaugural Charity Gala Dinner organised by Phawu Lethu Skills Development Training, underscoring the role of NGOs in supporting vulnerable communities.
The visit will conclude with a Clean Cities and Towns campaign in Zwelihle Township, where Mashatile will lead a community clean-up and tree-planting initiative.
“The key focus of the campaign is to promote shared responsibility for clean, healthy spaces, encourage friendly competition among municipalities, and mobilise communities to take ownership of public spaces,” he said.
The visit underscores government’s commitment to advancing land reform, strengthening community development, and fostering sustainable environments.
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