Through skills training, Agri SA is now in a position to enable women in the Keimoes area to make use of business opportunities relating to agriculture and food production, promote creativity and also help with the development of children.
"Essentially it has to do with unlocking the inherent skills of women and supplementing this with what is necessary to operate a business," said Hendrik Ackerman, Chair of Agri SA's Labour and Social Policy Committee.
Agri SA President Johannes Möller, who was the guest speaker at the event, thanked various role players involved in the project. "We wish to thank AgriSETA for the funding they provided and specifically those who brought the project to maturity. Our rural communities are of direct importance to Agri SA, farmers, farm workers and women, who must work together and, with dignity, ensure a better future for all.
The proverbial cherry on the cake
The capacity of agriculture to create more jobs has declined significantly, which resulted in many families often having to survive with only one income. Many people in rural areas are unemployed and need some way in which they can generate an income. "A project that can empower women with skills to start a business - even if it is on a small scale - is therefore very important. Successful initiatives for income generation can be expanded and assist with job creation in the area. Women, in turn, can teach children to become financially independent. This is a win-win situation, and the project is close to my heart," said Delene Möller, a farmer's wife in the area.
She paid tribute to her female colleagues throughout the country who are involved in a variety of development projects. "We also try to make a contribution to the community within were we live. In fact, I have a passion, especially for children and women in my area. If my involvement in the project can make a difference to the lives of people, it will truly be rewarding. If we can expand successfully to other provinces and communities, it will be the proverbial cherry on the cake," she said.
