Deputy Speaker, the ANC is committed to a comprehensive and clear rural development strategy, linked to land and agrarian reform and the improvement in the conditions of farmworkers and farm dwellers, and one that builds the potential for rural sustainable livelihoods.
Small businesses in rural areas, in sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and farming, are expected to get an added boost from government's Comprehensive Rural Development Programme. The Department of Rural Development and Land Reform has finalised the framework for the programme and has begun developing a Green Paper on rural development and land reform, which should be ready by the end of the year.
The ultimate goal of the programme is the creation of vibrant rural communities. The direction of the Green Paper will be strongly informed by the pilot projects the department has established in various provinces. Following the national launch of the programme by President Jacob Zuma, in August, at Muyexe, Limpopo, the department identified over 21 projects in Muyexe alone covering a wide range of interventions.
The ANC appreciates the significant progress that is being made by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform in ensuring acceleration in fighting against poverty in the rural areas. Ke a leboga. [Thank you.] [Applause.]