Iliso Care Society's new tractor donation: A boost for community development

Iliso Care Society, a non-governmental organisation based in Site C, has received a major boost at the start of the year with the donation of a tractor from students and staff of Virginia Tech University in the United States. 

The donation marks a significant milestone for Iliso Care Society, which plays a vital role in hunger relief and community development. Founder Vivian Zilo Ncana, who also directs a private enterprise focused on farming and soil preparation, said it was a wonderful way to start the year. "We are truly honoured to host students from Virginia Tech and to witness their commitment to meaningful change."

Ms Ncana said a heartfelt appreciation goes to the Virginia Tech students and private individual donors from Virginia, USA, who over the past two years tirelessly raised awareness and funds to purchase a brand-new tractor. She said the tractor will strengthen food production efforts and help ensure that fresh produce reaches vulnerable households within the community.

Beyond the donation, she said the visit focused strongly on skills development and education. “Fifteen women affiliated with Iliso Care Society received hands-on training in soil preparation, vegetable seedling production, soil types, and soil particles. This practical knowledge is already empowering the women to farm more efficiently, sustainably, and with greater confidence. If you take care of the soil, the soil will take care of you,” she said. 

Dr. Ozzie Abaye from Virginia Tech University highlighted the deeper purpose behind the initiative. “We are here to donate a tractor purchased by students, staff, and partner organisations because of the incredible work Mama Vivian is doing in feeding the community and ploughing back into it. It was not difficult to convince students to support this project, because it is something close to our hearts,” she said. 

She said that while students initially participated for academic credit, the project has grown into a heart-driven mission.

“This is no longer about coming to South Africa to do service. It has become a mission of making lasting change,” said Dr Abaye. 

Plans are already underway for students to establish a university-based organisation dedicated to supporting Iliso Care Society.

“This support is becoming a lifetime commitment,” she said, reaffirming their vow to continue offering unwavering support to Mama Vivian and her hunger relief work.

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