Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has urged young people in Sundays River Valley to actively pursue employment opportunities in the agricultural sector, describing it as a key driver of economic growth and job creation in the region.
Meth delivered this message during a community outreach campaign in Addo, within the Sundays River Valley Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape, on Monday. Meth led efforts to expand access to employment opportunities and essential labour services.
Engaging directly with residents and jobseekers, the Minister encouraged the youth to take advantage of opportunities within the farming and agricultural value chain, noting the sector’s significant contribution to the local economy.
The outreach forms part of government’s ongoing commitment to bringing services closer to communities, particularly those in rural and farming areas, ensuring that workers and employers can access support without travelling long distances.
“Residents of Addo benefited from a range of on-site services, including employment counselling, processing of Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) applications and claims, resolution of enquiries, handling of Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases claims, as well as inspection and enforcement services to promote compliance with labour laws,” the department said.
The Minister emphasised that taking services directly to communities reduces barriers to access and strengthens government's responsiveness to the needs of communities.
The Department of Employment and Labour will continue rolling out similar service delivery initiatives across the province to widen access to government services and support economic participation. – SAnews.gov.za
