Pretoria: Agriculture is crucial to South Africa’s economic growth and food security, President Cyril Ramaphosa stated, advocating for a diverse and inclusive agricultural sector. In his weekly newsletter, the President highlighted the importance of a farming industry that mirrors South Africa’s diversity while ensuring a stable food supply for the nation.
According to South African Government News Agency, last year saw South Africa’s agricultural exports reach a record $13.7 billion. These exports are varied, with 44% going to other African countries, 21% to Asia and the Middle East, 19% to the European Union, and 6% to the Americas. The President noted that the value and volume of the farming sector have more than doubled since 1994, underscoring the joint efforts of government and industry to access more export markets.
The President also pointed out that agriculture remains a major employment source, with around 924,000 people directly employed in the sector by the end of 2024, and more than 200,000 working elsewhere along the agricultural value chain. He emphasized the sector’s critical role in supporting small towns and rural areas, and the government’s commitment to ensuring its growth and sustainability.
Collaborations with industry partners, such as the Agriculture and Agro-processing Masterplan signed in 2022, are part of the growth-enhancing measures being undertaken. Additionally, the Department of Agriculture has introduced a blended finance instrument with the Land Bank to support farmers in need of capital.
Addressing infrastructure challenges, President Ramaphosa acknowledged the constraints posed by municipal service delivery issues and poor infrastructure, such as roads, rail, and ports. He noted that ongoing structural reforms are aimed at tackling these challenges, with several infrastructure projects underway to boost agricultural growth.
Finally, the President stressed the need for addressing equity, inclusion, and land ownership challenges in achieving sustainable agriculture. He cited economist Wandile Sihlobo’s book, “A Country of Two Agricultures,” to highlight that black farmers currently account for only about 10% of commercial output. He emphasized the importance of empowering black farmers and continuing land reform efforts to contribute to the sector’s growth.