Funding Awareness Campaign promotes rural development in WSLM
Story: Phumla Ngubo | Photo: Phumla Ngubo
The Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA), in partnership with the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) and Walter Sisulu Local Municipality (WSLM), recently hosted a Funding Awareness Campaign at the Maletswai Development Sports Centre. The event served as an interactive platform for community members eager to learn about funding opportunities for rural development projects aimed at improving livelihoods in the region.
Simxolele Mbovane from DRDAR directed the program, expertly guiding discussions and ensuring the event ran seamlessly. His facilitation was critical in communicating key messages effectively to the audience.
Nozintombi Bacela from ECRDA addressed attendees on the pivotal role of the rural economy in the Eastern Cape. She emphasized the significance of targeted support for rural communities, given that a majority of the province’s population resides in these areas. “As most citizens of the Eastern Cape live in rural areas, the rural economy is of critical importance to ensure that the benefits of sustainable socio-economic development reach our people,” Bacela said. She also underscored the need for collaborative efforts among government agencies, local municipalities, and community organisations to optimise funding initiatives and enhance living conditions.
Building on this message, Onezwa Bedeni from DRDAR outlined the department’s achievements and initiatives focused on rural development. Her insights provided attendees with a deeper understanding of DRDAR’s goals and their tangible impact on communities.
Keletso Masima of ECRDA elaborated on the agency’s objectives and its upcoming projects aimed at fostering growth and development in the region. He spoke about programs designed to empower local communities and support entrepreneurship, laying the groundwork for sustainable progress.
Tiyo Skali, representing the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), shared the corporation’s efforts to assist local businesses and stimulate economic growth. Highlighting successful partnerships and initiatives, Skali demonstrated how these efforts have created jobs and expanded business opportunities in the region.
Kayakazi Xolela from the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs, and Tourism (DEDEAT) concluded the presentations by emphasizing the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. She shared information on environmental initiatives that safeguard the region’s natural resources while promoting sustainable tourism and development.
The Funding Awareness Campaign was lauded for providing a valuable forum for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, setting the stage for impactful rural development in the Eastern Cape.