BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
NSANGWINI – The Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has commended the resilience and determination of child-headed households during a field visit to four homes in Nsangwini under Mahlangatsha Inkhundla, where she witnessed the fruits of a successful harvest season.
The uplifting visit highlighted the tangible impact of targeted agricultural support provided by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office during the 2024/25 farming season.
Each of the 20 supported child-headed households (CHHs) received 10 bags of maize seed, 100 kg of fertilizer (2:3:2:37), 50 kg LAN, two hours of tractor hire, and essential pesticides empowering them to cultivate their fields and improve food security.
The tour began at the home of Zodwa Mabuza, where a family of 11 now enjoys greater food security thanks to a successful maize harvest. The delegation also met Sikhanyiso Shabangu 21 years old an aspiring tailor who harvested approximately 40–50 kg of maize. DPM pledged to support her dreams through vocational training.
Next was Temlandvo Shabangu , who proudly shared her yield of 16 bags of maize. She expressed a passion for hairdressing, and the DPMO assured her of support in pursuing her professional goals.
The final visit was to Lindelwa Dludlu , who harvested 20 bags of maize and aspires to become a tailor. She too will receive assistance to advance her vocational skills.
The Deputy Prime Minister Dladla praised the courage and tenacity of young people heading households. She also acknowledged the critical role played by community caregivers, social workers, and Inkhundla leadership in identifying and uplifting vulnerable groups.
“I am deeply moved by the strength of these young individuals. Their achievements show that with the right support, even the most vulnerable can thrive,” said Dladla.
She encouraged young people to take up vocational training and take advantage of empowerment opportunities offered by government and its partners. In a further show of commitment, the DPM announced that households with dilapidated housing structures will have new homes built to ensure their safety and dignity.
This farming season, the DPMO also supported an additional 30 child-headed households with bean seeds, further reinforcing its broader strategy of promoting food security and social protection across the Kingdom.
The visit underscored government’s unwavering dedication to uplifting vulnerable youth through sustainable development, skills empowerment, and long-term support.
(Courtesy Pics)
