AT least a thousand families will benefit from the implementation of comprehensive rural development projects in the Mkhondo municipal area of Mpumalanga.

This announcement was made by Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform Gugile Nkwinti at the launch of the Mkhondo rural development programme in Donkerhoek near Piet Retief on Friday.

The KwaNgema, Emahhashini and Donkerhoek villages are affected by underdevelopment, unemployment and poverty.

The comprehensive rural development plan is aimed at improving the lives of rural residents by providing services, increasing earning potential, creating jobs and stemming the exodus to cities.

"Community members from individual households in this area will be employed during the implementation of various projects for at least two years," Nkwinti said.