Northern Cape, Premier, Ms Sylvia Lucas has admitted that her province is ranked amongst the highest food wastage despite largest numbers of poverty stricken homes. The Premier was delivering a keynote address during the World Food Day commemoration in Postmansburg.
World Food Day is being commemorated annually to highlight efforts by government in eradicating hunger and malnutrition through the Integrated Food Security and Nutrition Programme (IFSNP).
She indicated that a high levels of poverty was a cause for concerned for the country, especially Northern Cape in particular. The Premier also emphasised the harsh financial times, where food prices continue to escalate and exacerbate the situation.
She however challenged everyone to change his/her old way of thinking of wasting food – thus by stop throwing away leftover foods and the thought that meal must always comprises meat.
Over 150 countries across the globe are commemorated the day to highlighted efforts to combat hunger and malnutrition. The premier together with MEC Shushu and MEC Sokhatsha handed over mobile handling facilities and starter packs to the community. Before the event, Premier Lucas together with her dignitaries visited agricultural projects.
This year’s commemoration will be celebrated under the theme “Our actions are our future. #A Zero Hunger, World by 2030 is possible”.
Recent poverty trends report shows that more than half of South Africans are living in poverty. (Source:Statsa.gov.za)
Since the inception of the Provincial Integrated Food Security and Nutrition Programmes (IFSNP) in 2004, various projects throughout the province have been unveiled in support of food insecure communities. The deliverables include the distribution of irrigation tools, seedlings, food parcels, food schemes at schools and clinics.
Enquiries: Phemelo Manankong – External Communications Officer
@ Cell: 066 303 8177
Tel: 053 8025 5622
Email:pmanankong@ncpg.gov.za
www.agrinc.gov.za