The engagement formed part of a broader, sustained relationship between the University and the ZDF, to consolidate progress on existing projects, address outstanding areas of coordination and align forward-looking priorities.

The meeting also initiated early-stage planning for Mandela Week 2026, to be hosted in Zwide. Discussions focused on shaping a coherent programme, identifying a unifying theme and ensuring that planned activities contribute to community priorities, also aligning with the University’s broader engagement strategy.

A key focus area was the goat farming project, where discussions centred on advancing implementation through a more coordinated and sustainable approach. This engagement reaffirmed the project as part of a longer-term development, rather than a once-off intervention.

Both the ZDF and HoC shared updates on current activities, showing a mutual commitment to collaborative implementation and engagement.

In addition, the HoC provided an update on the delivery of donations from Mandela University to the ZDF office, recently officially opened. This support forms part of a continued effort to strengthen local organisational capacity as a foundation for sustained collaboration.