The provinces’ MEC of Agriculture, Desbo Mohono, says this day is commemorated to raise awareness of poverty and hunger amongst residents. OFM News’ Elsabé Richard spoke to Mohono about what this day means and the importance thereof…

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The province celebrated World Food Day in Masutlhe on 29 October by providing identified households with goats, fruit trees, indigenous chickens and garden equipment. The MEC explains that fruit trees were chosen because it does not need much water in order for it to survive. Similarly, with the indigenous chickens – they are free-range chickens that can survive in any weather condition. There are several indigenous chicken breeds in South Africa such as Potchefstroom Koekoek, Venda, Naked Neck, Ovambo, Natal Game, Zulu and Nguni, to name a few of the most popular ones.

Mohono explains that this day is important to the province as the North West is one of the provinces with people who live below the poverty line. She says, as a result, it is critical for the province to ensure that a way is found to improve the lives of the people by providing them with a food security package.

The department came up with a food and nutrition strategy where packages of agriculture are handed out to people in order for them to start their own agricultural businesses. This, in turn, will help alleviate hunger and poverty in the province.

She says the department will be visiting other districts who will also receive these donations. Mohono also urges residents to treasure and look after the stock and vegetable gardens that they receive from the department.

Meanwhile, World Food Day is celebrated each year on 16 October around the world to raise awareness of poverty and hunger and to ensure the need for food security.

OFM News