Villagers' festive season joy ruined!

THE hopes of unemployed villagers in getting jobs and supporting their families have been shattered.

This after the Sepitsi Broiler Farm in Lebowakgomo, outside Polokwane, Limpopo, was vandalised.

This happened shortly before the farm was to be commissioned to feed the Lebowakgomo Chicken Abattoir, which is about to re-open its doors this December.

Essential electrical cables, corrugated iron, and specialised equipment have been stolen, not only stopping operations but also sending a detrimental message to investors and local communities.

With six broiler houses capable of producing 180 000 broilers per cycle, the farm was supposed to employ scores of villagers, but now that will not happen as it has been vandalised.

Villagers are now disappointed that they won't get work on the farm.

Victor Moloto (36), a villager, said they had hoped to have a great festive season with jobs.

"Our dreams have now been shattered. We don't know if this farm will ever open its doors again because the damage is too much and might cost millions. We're disappointed because with the high unemployment rate, the farm would have come in handy," he said.

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Another villager, James Molwantwa (42) called on the government to come up with ways of rescuing the farm and ensuring that 24-hour security is put in place.

"Government shouldn't let this farm go to waste because we need jobs. This farm should employ many workers who should support their families, but now that will not happen. As community members, we should also guard against further vandalism," he said.

Limpopo Agriculture MEC Nakedi Kekana recently visited the farm where she expressed her frustrations about the vandalism.

She said vandalism is an attack on job creation and community welfare.

"As the government plans to restore these facilities to generate employment opportunities, acts of vandalism directly contradict these goals. The loss of infrastructure undermines community stability and job prospects, making it imperative that we address these criminal activities head-on," she said.

MEC Kekana said it's vital for the community to unite in protecting their resources and support initiatives aimed at economic revitalisation.