Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Ms Thoko Didiza, has reiterated government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of rural communities.
She underscored the necessity of equipping rural youth with skills essential for thriving in the global economy, emphasising that geographical location should not limit access to opportunities for personal advancement.
Speaking at the inauguration of the pioneering Mamba Information and Communication Technology Centre in Ward 02, Umlalazi Local Municipality, within the rural community of Nkandla, Minister Didiza reaffirmed government’s unwavering dedication to utilising the digital sphere to drive economic empowerment and upliftment in rural areas.
“The establishment of the Mamba ICT Centre reflects our commitment to harnessing technology’s power to bridge the digital gap and create avenues for our rural youth. By granting access to crucial digital resources and training, we empower our youth to actively engage in the digital economy, fostering job creation and community development,” she said.
Accompanying the minister were two traditional leaders, Mgazi and KwaNxamalala. At least 72 young people from three clans, Mgazi, KwaNxamalala and KwaMagwaza became the first recruits in the centre to advance their skills in technology. The initial cohort of students from the community has enrolled in coding, digital literacy, solar installation and entrepreneurship courses.
The centre aims to equip rural youth with skills necessary for success in a rapidly evolving world. Collaborating with the Moses Kotane Institute, Durban University of Technology and the National Youth Development Agency, the Department of Social Development strives to provide essential skills.
The Mamba ICT Centre serves as a nucleus for learning and innovation, offering tailor-made training programmes to meet the evolving demands of the digital era. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal, aims to ensure that no youth is left behind in technological evolution.
Minister Didiza emphasised the significance of collaboration between government, private sector partners and local communities in fostering sustainable development.
“The success of initiatives like the Mamba ICT Centre hinges on partnerships that unite stakeholders from various sectors, pooling expertise and resources. We want to see the first cohort of students becoming exemplary by qualifying and being able to open businesses for themselves,” she added.
KwaZulu-Natal Member of Parliament (MPL), Sizophila Mkhize, representing MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza, expressed gratitude to all contributors to the realisation of the Mamba ICT Centre, emphasising its transformative potential on youth lives.
“Today marks a significant leap in our journey towards inclusive growth and prosperity for all. The centre is a beacon of hope for the youth of Nkandla. Past administrations failed to recognise the value of such initiatives for rural communities,” she concluded.
Mkhize expressed satisfaction in witnessing the government fulfilling its promises to the people. She noted that the digital age has broadened perspectives, aligning with the expanded accessibility of information and tools.
“It is heartening to see government’s unwavering commitment to advancing the digital transformation agenda and fostering opportunities for rural communities to thrive in the digital age.”
