Mexico, South Africa to Collaborate on Rural Development

Julio Berdegué, Minister of Agriculture and Mzwanele Nyhontso, South Africa's Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, met to exchange experiences on rural development. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in combating poverty and enhancing agricultural practices in both countries.

Berdegué highlighted that President Claudia Sheinbaum has emphasized reducing extreme poverty, aligning with the goals of the 2030 Agenda. "Many people cannot exercise their constitutional rights due to poverty. Workers in the primary sector must be well paid. It is a key area in our fight against extreme poverty," he said.

Minister Nyhontso explained that his ministry is responsible for land reform and related actions. He expressed the importance of learning from countries with proven activities. "Even though Mexico and South Africa are far apart, there is much to learn from Mexican experiences." The two officials agreed to promote a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on rural development and poverty reduction. "I am very confident that this will be a beneficial action for both countries," Minister Nyhontso emphasized.

Nyhontso highlighted that one of his ministry's mandates is to develop infrastructure and services to enable small farmers to access land, inputs, and markets. "We believe we can restore and benefit those who were dispossessed of their land by apartheid, particularly focusing on youth and providing them with land to cultivate and inhabit, as is the case in Mexico," he added.