Muifha Tshifhiwa
Humbublani Netshivhodza encourages best farming practices as contained in Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act to address dissertification.
Agricultural sector becomes a casualty whenever the drought hit resulting in food insecurity and other aspects associated with agriculture and the environment.
Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) in collaboration with Vhembe District Municipality, Musina Local Municipality and Limpopo Department of Economic Development &Tourism (LEDET) have hosted a World Environment and World Day to combat Desertification and Drought at Masisi Hall, Vhembe District.
The awareness sought to highlight and address some of the causes of desertification and drought such as air pollution, plastic pollution, deforestation, soil degradation, global warming, and climate change.
Speaking during the awareness, Nekhavhambe Thivhavhudzi made assertion that though some desertification causes can be natural and beyond human capability, deforestation, overgrazing, farming practices and urbanization can be controlled and addressed. She assured the community of Masisi that it is possible to eradicate Desertification and enjoy the benefits of a productive land if they work together.
Nkhathutsheleni Mutshembele of LEDET outlined some of the Acts from National Environment Act and Limpopo Environmental Management Act regulating the protection of plants and animals. He encouraged the community members to refrain from committing acts that threaten the environment, rather to fully support activities that promote environmental protection and desertification.
In addition to the Acts that regulate the protection of plants and animals, Humbulani Netshivhodza explained briefly about the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act. The Act promotes some of the best farming practices as part of addressing the desertification such as application of minimum soil disturbance, maximum soil cover and encouraging crop rotation.
Word Day to combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD) is celebrated under the theme, “Her land. Her Rights”, emphasizing that investing in women’s equal access to land is a direct investment in the future of humanity. It is an initiative by the United Nations General Assembly to promote community and ecosystem resilience while improving human conditions in dry lands.
Multidisciplinary Sectors are all out to share the skills and knowledge in protecting the environment and livelihood.
