Question NW3269 to the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
20 December 2023 - NW3269
Montwedi, Mr Mk to ask the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
Given that during her visit to Taung in 2020 she made a commitment to farmers that the Lesedi store would be handed over to farmers to be fully used for agricultural activities, what (a) steps has she taken to fulfil the specified promise and (b) time frames have been put in place to acquire the Lesedi store?
Reply:
a) Steps taken are as follows:
- Appointment and Mandate of the Task Team: In November 2021, the Head of Department (HOD) of the North West Provincial Department of Agriculture (NW-PDA) formed a Task Team. This Team's primary objective was to address two key issues at the North West Provincial agricultural facility: firstly, determining the rightful ownership of the facility, and secondly, evacuating non-agricultural businesses, such as motor mechanic workshops and brick-making enterprises.
- Initial Actions and Renovation Plans: The Task Team, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), decided to refurbish specific structures at the facility for use as a Farmer Production Support Unit (FPSU). This unit would support Taung crop farmers who cultivate approximately 3600-3700 hectares of land under an Irrigation Scheme. Essential renovation works identified included upgrading the storage facility, the guard room, and fencing, with further infrastructure development planned for the future.
- Challenges in Eviction and Lease Agreements: The eviction process of the current tenants, primarily non-agricultural businesses, faced complications. Occupiers of the Lesedi building claimed to have valid lease agreements with the Provincial Department of Agriculture. However, upon investigation, it was determined that these leases had expired, and the NW-PDA had no plans to renew them. The Task Team's mandate to evict these tenants was hindered by this lease disagreement.
- Stalled Development Plans: Due to unresolved issues regarding the facility's ownership and the ongoing presence of non-agricultural businesses, DALRRD's plans to develop the site were put on hold.
b) Resolution Efforts by NW-PDA: The NW-PDA, as the custodian of the Lesedi building, committed to resolving the conflict with local businesses. This action aims to make the facility available for its intended purpose – the establishment of a functional FPSU for Taung farmers. However, the Task Team faced further delays. Meetings with tenants were disrupted by individuals claiming ownership of the Lesedi Cooperative facility. Consequently, the Task Team could not resolve the ownership issue and sought legal advice from the State Attorney, which is still pending.