The Eastern Cape Provincial Government, through Isiqalo Youth Fund Programme, continues to reinforce its support for youth-led agricultural initiatives with the official handover of a new delivery truck worth over R900 000 to the Colosa Youth Primary Co-operative Limited in Dutywa on Tuesday.

The handover was officiated by the Executive Mayor of Mbhashe Local Municipality, Dr Samkelo Janda, on behalf of Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane. The vehicle will assist the young farmers in transporting their produce to various markets more efficiently, enabling them to grow their business and expand their reach beyond their local community.

Co-operative member Sivuyise Manganyelwa said the support would allow them to meet the growing demand for their produce. With this truck, we will now be able to meet the demands of the markets that we supply,” he said. Beyond improving logistics, the initiative is also creating opportunities for young people and women in the community by generating employment and promoting agricultural skills.

Colosa Youth Primary Co-operative Limited is a youth-owned vegetable farming initiative established in April 2021. Based in the rural village of Colosa, the co-operative focuses on producing fresh vegetables such as cabbage and spinach while making productive use of previously underutilised land. The initiative forms part of a growing movement of young people in the Eastern Cape who are turning to agriculture as a sustainable source of income and employment.

Speaking during the handover, Executive Mayor Dr Samkelo Janda welcomed the continued partnership between the provincial government and the municipality in empowering young entrepreneurs. We appreciate the support from the provincial government through the Isiqalo Youth Fund Programme. This vehicle is an important asset for the co-operative, and we encourage the beneficiaries to take good care of it and use it to grow their business,” said Dr Janda.

He added that agriculture remains one of the key sectors that can unlock opportunities for young people in rural areas. Agriculture restores dignity, strengthens food security and creates sustainable opportunities in our communities. With commitment and collaboration, initiatives like this can change the lives of many young people,” he said.

The handover forms part of the Eastern Cape Government s broader commitment to empowering youth entrepreneurship while stimulating rural economic development through targeted funding and infrastructure support.