Hon Deputy Speaker, the ANC government has acquired a portion of Leeuwfontein Farm. It covers an area of about 342 hectares and is situated near Bronkhorstspruit in the Metsweding district. This farm was then leased to Mr Mafuleka for five years. Mafuleka is one of only a few young emerging commercial farmers.
In addition to granting this lease, the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform approved funding of over R1 million to cover essential overhead expenses.
Mr Mafuleka's efforts are already reaping fruit. The first crop of pears is flourishing and is due to be harvested soon. Plans are also in the pipeline to plant cabbage, baby marrows and spinach for the local market and local vendors. He has also employed 11 workers, all of whom are women. Five of them are earmarked to be employed permanently.
This initiative is part of the ANC government's proactive land action strategy which aims to accelerate the land restitution process and ensure maximum productive use of the acquired land.
The ANC hopes that this project will serve as a sustainable model for the future and will further enable more young historically disadvantaged people to follow their dreams of becoming commercial farmers. Thank you. [Applause.]