Question NW2048 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
19 June 2023 - NW2048
Kruger, Mr HC to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Given the notable migration of major agribusinesses from small towns due to declining municipal services, does her department perceive this as an opportunity to refocus resources towards fostering innovative, independent, and small-scale farming enterprises that could invigorate local economies and increase resilience against such service disruptions; if not, why is such a market-oriented strategy being overlooked; if so, what are the details of the strategic redirection?
Reply:
Yes. It is true that agribusiness migratory patterns result in unemployment and food insecurity for households that were directly benefiting from such establishments. It is also true that the opportunity should be seized to promote more self-employment within the sector. Of the nine objectives defined in the Agricultural and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP), five objectives as highlighted below aim to broadly address the concerns raised in this question:
- Promote transformation in agriculture and agro-processing sectors;
- Increase food security in South Africa;
- Accelerate the opening of markets and better access conditions;
- Enhance competitiveness and entrepreneurial opportunities through technological innovations, infrastructure development and digitalization; and
- Create effective farmer support, agro-processing, food wholesale and retail incentives.
The work done through various committees is focused on developing integrated development plans to address and attain the broader strategic intent for inclusive economic growth.