The Alfred Nzo Development Agency (ANDA), led by Chairperson Ms. Ntombi Mabude and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Lumko Mtimde, officially handed over a newly constructed sheep shearing shed to Inkqubela Shearing Shed Pty Ltd in Piphany Village, Ward 22, Matatiele Local Municipality.

This latest milestone follows earlier support from ANDA, which included the provision of bales, sorting tables, wool pressers, scales, and sheep shears. After supplying the equipment, ANDA identified the need for a dedicated facility where farmers could work more efficiently in a safe and hygienic environment.

The project, initiated in 2023, benefits 33 members of the Inkqubela Shearing Shed Association. The membership is inclusive, comprising 15 women, 18 men, youth, and people with disabilities. Collectively, members have declared 1,410 sheep to the Association.

Delivering the keynote address, Alfred Nzo District Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr. Vukile Mhlelembana, highlighted the importance of investing in rural agricultural infrastructure. He encouraged community members to safeguard the facility, saying:

This structure is built with the aim of restoring the dignity of our rural farmers and building a sustainable agricultural economy. Through this shed we are empowering Inkqubela Shearing Shed to operate more efficiently and access better markets.”

Expressing gratitude, Association Chairperson Mr. Dumisani Mbutho said:

We are so grateful to the Alfred Nzo Development Agency for providing this structure. It will not only improve our working conditions but also enable us to produce higher-quality wool.”

The handover was attended by the ANDA Board Chairperson, Alfred Nzo and Matatiele Local Municipality Councillors, the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA), traditional leaders, and other stakeholders from the agricultural sector.