Agriculture
This sector is characterised by two main distinct types:
Commercial agriculture, such as sugar cane farming along the coastal strip and Subsistence agriculture in the rural hinterland and inland areas
The sugar industry makes an important contribution to the local and national economy, given its industrial and agricultural investment, foreign exchange earnings and high employment linkages with major suppliers, support industries and customers. It also makes an important contribution to direct employment in cane production and processing, and provides indirect employment for numerous support industries. Supporting agricultural activities include forestry, fruit and vegetable farming, tunnel farming, and fresh cut flowers. The National Schools Nutrition Programme with the Department of Education has seen a significant increase in agricultural activity targeting local co-operatives and small scale farmers not just in iLembe District but across the KwaZulu-Natal province.