Mr Dries Joubert, Chairperson of TAU SA North, expressed his gratitude towards the MEC for Agriculture, Ms Dekeledi Magadzi, for her assistance to try and resolve the long outstanding communication problems of many farmers in the region.

Reports from the Musina, Mopanie, Ellisras, Koedoesrand, Tom Burke, Swartwater, Groblersbrug, Beauty and Linton areas indicate that Telkom is finally totally unable to provide the necessary communication infrastructure to rural areas. Some users have been without Telkom services from August 15, 2007. Some experience daily frustration as Telkom cannot provide even the basic technical assistance.

Various district offices of TAU SA North reported that complaints go unattended. Letters written by the Regional Office to senior personnel in the Regional Offices of Telkom seem to have little impact.

Finally, out of desperation, a letter was written to the MEC for Agriculture, Ms. Dekeledi Magadzi. The letter was dated January 30 this year. On Monday, 25 February, Mr Steven Lukhwa, sales executive of MTN, visited the regional offices of the TAU SA and indicated that MTN would like to get involved and find out if they might be able to assist. He said the MEC for Agriculture had requested MTN to get involved.

Mr. Joubert said TAU SA North is glad that the MEC found the time to assist the people. The TAU’s regional office will keep the MEC updated about the progress in this regard.