Hansard: NCOP: Unrevised hansard

House: National Council of Provinces

Date of Meeting: 17 Oct 2023

Summary

No summary available.

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Minutes

UNREVISED HANSARD
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES
TUESDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2023
PROCEEDINGS OF VIRTUAL NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES
Watch here: Plenary 

 

 

The Council met at 14:01.

 

 

The Chairperson took the Chair and requested members to observe a moment of silence for prayers or meditation.

 

ANNOUNCEMENT

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: Hon delegates, before we proceed I would like to remind everybody of the Rules relating to virtual and hybrid meetings and sittings, in particular, the parts 21, 22, and 23 of Rule 103 which provides for the following:

 

That the virtual sitting constitutes the sitting of the National Council of Provinces; that delegates in the sitting enjoy the same powers and privileges that applies in the sitting of the National Council of Provinces; that for the purposes of a quorum, all delegates who are logged in the

virtual platform shall be considered present; that delegates will switch on their videos if they want to speak; that delegates should ensure that the microphones on their gadgets are muted and must always remain muted; that all delegates will participate in the discussions through the chatroom.

In addition, I would like to remind delegates that the interpretation facility is active; permanent delegates, members of the executive and special delegation on the virtual platform are requested to ensure that the interpretation facility on their electronic devices are properly activated to facilitate access to the interpretation services. I would now move on, hon delegates, to allow an opportunity to delegates to give notices of motion. Just to remind delegates that 20 minutes is allocated in total for notices of motion and motions without notice. So, we start with the notices of motion.

 

NOTICES OF MOTION
 

Mr J J LONDT: Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

That the Council-

 

(1) debates the economic impact, the effective functioning of our sea ports can have, specifically the upgrade of habours away from the metropolitan areas such as Mossel Bay;

 

(2) with unemployment rising at an alarming rate and the need for easier access of rural agricultural, tourism and alternatives to the main ports, we need investments to turnaround the ailing economy.

 

Ms L C BEBEE: Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the Council-

 

debate strengthening of the initiatives that are geared at dealing decisively with the sophisticated criminal syndicates who are involved in the coal smuggling which results in energy crisis and load shedding in South Africa.

 

Ms B M BARTLETT: Hon Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the Council-

 

debate mechanisms ... [Inaudible.] ... municipalities that are failing to perform their basic functions such as delivery of clean potable water, regular waste collection and road maintenance to prevent the rapid deterioration of the quality of life of its residence.

 

Ms S SHAIKH: Hon Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

(1) debate measures to curb the surge in cash in transit heist which have become a significant threat to the national security.

 

(2) notes that since January 2023, there have been 249 cash in transit robberies which is ... [Inaudible.]

... increase from the same period last year.

 

 

 

Mr E Z NJADU: Hon Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

debate measures to strengthen the registration and monitoring system for the registration of professionals such as doctors, dentist, nurses, radiologist, engineers and lawyers to clamp down on fraudulent registered professionals, particularly, the unregistered healthcare professionals and lawyers who continue to exploit our communities to further their self-seeking greed for personal enrichment.

 

 

Mr M NHANHA: Chairperson, I hereby give notice that on the next sitting day of the House I shall move on behalf of the DA:

 

That the Council-

 

debates the dire and terrible state of our state-owned enterprises.

 

ANNIVERSARY OF SKARRELHUISIE IN GREAT BRAK RIVER, MOSSEL BAY

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr J J LONDT: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the DA:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

(1) notes that the Skarrelhuisie in Great Brak, Mossel Bay recently celebrated its first anniversary

 

 

(2) recalls that this community project flows from a partnership formed between the ward 4 committee, the Great Brak River Ratepayers Association and the Mossel Bay Municipality;

 

(3) further recalls that it aims to create an enabling environment where job seekers and potential employers can link up to bring a positive change to people’s lives;

 

(4) acknowledges that to date the Skarrelhuisie has helped more than 7 500 people to find a job opportunity;

 

 

(5) recognises that community projects like the Skarrelhuisie, which are aimed at reducing unemployment and facilitating job placements, play an important role in fostering economic growth and social development;

 

(6) also recognises that community projects like the Skarrelhuisie empower individuals to become self- sufficient while enhancing the local economy;

 

(7) further acknowledges that it is important to continue supporting and expanding such projects to reach even more people;

 

 

(8) also acknowledges that these community projects can continue to strengthen their impact and create sustainable employment solutions through collaborating with local businesses, organisations and government agencies; and

 

(9) congratulates the Skarrelhuisie on its achievements and;

 

 

(10) also wishes it all the best in continuing its good work in the future.

 

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

THUTHUKA DRIVING SKILLS PROGRAMME

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr E M MTHETHWA: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) commends the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government for its initiative in launching a Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme which seeks to assist more than 3 000 people across all age groups to get free learners and drivers’ licences from code 08 to code 14;

 

(2) notes that this initiative is part of the provincial government’s transport month campaign;

 

 

(3) also notes that engagements have already been initiated with driving schools’ executives in order to bring them on board and to work with them in rolling out this programme;

 

 

(4) believes that this initiative will contribute a great deal in increasing the chances for unemployed people to access jobs, as people who have licences stand a better chance of being employed as drivers across all sectors; and

 

(5) supports the call by the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government for all unemployed citizens in the province to apply for this programme.

 

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

106TH ANNIVERSARY OF OLIVER REGINALD TAMBO

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) notes that 27 October 2023 will mark the 106th anniversary of Oliver Reginald Tambo, a fearless anti- apartheid activist who served as the president of the ANC from 1967 to 1991;

 

 

(2) further notes that Oliver Tambo was an outstanding revolutionary democrat and a principled theoretician of the perspective of the national democratic revolution to which the ANC is committed, and consequently a central architect of the popular forces which would have an obligation to lead the offensive to achieve the national democratic revolution;

 

(3) acknowledges the indelible role that was played by Oliver Tambo in fighting against the repugnant system of apartheid and the pervasive legacy of the colonial and imperialist system, which resulted in the dispossession of the indigenous African majority and the destruction of its communities, resulting in ...

 

[Inaudible.] ... and the radical weakening of the sense of African identity and the destruction of the traditional value system identified as Ubuntu Botho, which would ensure African social cohesion;

 

 

(4) takes this opportunity to join the family of Oliver Tambo and the ANC in their celebration of the 106th anniversary of this outstanding 21st century African revolutionary; and

 

 

(5) makes a clarion call to all public representatives across the party political spectrum, especially the youth of South Africa, to reclaim the leadership values of this revolutionary titan in our ongoing task of democratic renewal and consolidation.

 

The motion without notice having not been agreed to, becomes a notice of motion.

 

PASSING OF WARRANT OFFICER CARIEN SCHULTZ

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the FF Plus:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) notes with great sadness the passing of WO Carien Schultz, a respected SAPS member from Kempton Park’s Visible Policing unit;

 

(2) further notes that this SAPS member was not only a public servant, but a wife to a husband, a mother to her children, a giant among friends and a confidant among colleagues;

 

 

(3) also notes that her legacy of fair judgement, respect and empathy will live on in her absence; and

 

 

(4) conveys our heartfelt condolences to the Schultz family.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

LAUNCH OF BORDER MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr M E NCHABELENG: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) notes and welcomes the launch of the Border Management Authority, BMA, at the Musina Showgrounds in Limpopo on Thursday, 5 October 2023;

 

(2) acknowledges that the launch of the BMA is the fulfilment of the commitment to establish a single, integrated and efficient authority to manage and secure the borders of the Republic of South Africa to ensure that South Africans live in peace and harmony with each other and with our neighbours;

 

 

(3) reaffirms its support for all national efforts to strengthen the integrity of the country's border security and;

 

 

(4) admits that when our country's ports of entry and borders are well protected and well managed, we are

 

able to prevent the illegal importation and exit of goods.

 

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

RAISING AWARENESS AROUND BREAST CANCER DURING OCTOBER – PINK MONTH

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

Ms M DLAMINI: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the EFF:

 

That the Council—

 

 

(1) notes that October is designated as the Pink Month, a month which raises awareness around breast cancer, including its early identification, signs and symptoms associated with the disease;

 

 

(2) further notes that incidences of breast cancer among South African women are increasing and is one of the most common cancers among women in the country;

 

(3) recognises that 90% of early stage breast cancer is curable with treatments available that can conserve breasts;

 

(4) further recognises that every year breast cancer kills more than 500 000 women around the world;

 

(5) acknowledges that in settings such as those found in our country where resources are not made available to women, the majority of women with breast cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease, resulting in low survival rates;

 

 

(6) also notes that the EFF calls upon the Minister of Health to make health facilities with mammograms accessible to all women all year round, even those women living in rural areas who are often forgotten by the ANC;

 

 

(7) declares that our hearts are with those that are fighting this disease;

 

 

(8) further declares that we stand with those that have survived it and;

 

(9) also declares that we bow our heads to commemorate those who have lost their lives to cancer.

 

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Can I move an amendment, Chair? She must expunge ... the ANC. The ANC is not opposed to the struggle of liberating women. If she agrees, we will agree with the motion.

 

 

Ms M DLAMINI: The ANC has forgotten women in rural areas. I will not amend, Chairperson.

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Then the motion is incorrect.

 

Ms M O MOKAUSE: It clearly shows how your party ... [Inaudible.] ... are so ignorant.

 

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Ignorance ... [Inaudible.] ... sound boxes. The loud makers in this House are extremely ignorant.

 

Ms M O MOKAUSE: You are very ignorant, and coming from you ... [Inaudible.] [Interjections.] ... of the majority party.

 

Coming from you ... You could’ve found someone to do that, not you.

 

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: That kind of discussion is not helpful.

 

 

The motion without notice having not been agreed to, becomes a notice of motion.

 

ARREST OF PERPETRATORS RESPONSIBLE FOR ATTACKS ON POLICE

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Ms A D MALEKA: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) commends members of the Ekurhuleni district and Eden Park police stations for arresting perpetrators responsible for attacking the police on Thursday,

12 October 2023;

 

(2) notes that the police arrested five suspects, including the driver of the car that the police had stopped in an attempt to search it, before they were attacked;

 

 

(3) also notes that the suspects will appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on charges of obstructing police in the execution of their duties, attack on police officers, assault on police officers and an attempted robbery of a firearm;

 

(4) believes that an attack on a member of the police is an attack against the state;

 

(5) further believes that those who seek to undermine the authority of the state should be dealt with decisively;

 

 

(6) condemns the ongoing attacks on police officers with the contempt it deserves and;

 

 

(7) calls for more severe sentences for all those found guilty of attacking members of the police.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

WISHING SPRINGBOK AND PROTEA TEAMS SUCCESS IN WORLD CUP CAMPAIGNS

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Ms N E NKOSI: Hon Chairperson, I hereby move without notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

That the Council—

 

 

 

(1) congratulates the Springboks on their tight

 

margin 29-28 victory over the host nation, France, in the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final match on Sunday, 15 October 2023;

 

 

(2) notes that both countries displayed a sterling performance and a good, dramatic rugby game in Paris, which was enjoyed by 80 000 spectators at the stadium, as well as millions of people around the world;

 

(3) recalls that the Springboks' victory in Paris has opened the way for the team to advance to the semifinal against England on Saturday, 21 October;

 

(4) also congratulates the South African cricket team on its good start in the Cricket World Cup by winning both of its opening matches;

 

 

(5) wishes the South African cricket team well in its match against the Netherlands, which is currently being played;

 

(6) calls upon all South Africans to rally behind Amabhokobhoko in their semifinal encounter with England, as well as the Proteas cricket team with the rest of its matches; and

 

 

(7) also wishes both teams success in their world cup campaigns.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

PALESTINE-ISRAEL WAR

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr I NTSUBE: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

That the House-

 

 

 

(1) notes with utter dismay and profound sadness the brutal and devastating violence and destruction in Israel and Gaza since Saturday, the 7th, last week;

 

(2) further notes that the atrocities and senseless murder of innocent civilians, particularly women and children, that the world has witnessed since 7 October are the latest chapter in a painful history of suffering, oppression, occupation, and conflict going back to more than 70 five years;

 

 

(3) acknowledges that the harrowing deaths of Israeli and Palestinian civilians are a shock to our collective humanity;

 

 

(4) further acknowledges that as South Africans we are particularly filled with deep sorrow as some who

 

have died are South African citizens caught in a conflict;

 

 

(5) reiterates the call that the Palestinians and Israeli people should come together, reconcile, and choose a path of just peace; and

 

 

(6) takes this opportunity to express its profound sadness and condolences to the countless families and individuals who have lost their family members and those who are going through the most difficult time in hospitals and facing a bleak and endless future of senseless deaths, violence, oppression, and discrimination.

 

 

Agreed to.

 

 

DEBT CRISIS AT MATJHABENG LOCAL MUNICIPALITY

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr M MOLETSANE: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

 

That the House-

 

(1) note that the Matjhabeng Local Municipality in Lejweleputswa region in the Free State Province is in a crisis of municipal debts;

 

(2) further notes that the municipality currently owes over R2 million rand to 15 companies for services rendered;

 

(3) acknowledge that about 42 state vehicles were attached by the court, this including municipal waste removal trucks and a fleet of newly bought municipal bakkies;

 

(4) further acknowledges that on Friday, 22 September 2023, a court plea to block the sheriff from confiscating municipal assets was dismissed by the Bloemfontein Magistrate Court;

 

 

(5) understands that consequently, that allowed the 15 companies owned by the municipalities to proceed with the seizure of municipal assets;

 

 

(6) recognises that municipalities play an important role in shaping the nature and quality of services rendered to our people and that the growth of public debts therefore has a negative impact on service delivery;

 

(7) further recognises that public service plays a critical role in advancing human rights, fighting poverty, and addressing inequality;

 

(8) considers that Matjhabeng financial problems will worsen the service delivery that was rendered by this municipality and prevent it from functioning; and

 

 

(9) calls for all municipalities to effectively manage their finances as debt can be rendered, a violation of fundamental rights.

 

Not agreed to.

 

 

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Chairperson, on a point of order:

 

 

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: What is the point of order Mmabatho?

 

 

Ms M O MOKAUSE: Chairperson today’s sitting must note that the Chief Whip of the Majority Party is extremely childish, is extremely petty. He cannot afford ... [Interjection.]

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP: That’s not a point of order Chair... [Interjection.] [Inaudible.] ...

 

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP: Hon members, may I plead with you that all of us are responsible for ensuring a proper decorum of the House and any behaviour that undermines the functioning of the House and therefore our overall work as Parliament and particularly as a National Council of Provinces.

 

So, we... hon Mmabatho, please note that what you are raising is not a point of order. You are articulating a different point of view. Hon members, I really plead with you, let’s please co-operate and ensure that the running of the House is smooth, and it does achieve its intentions and purposes. Thank you very much.

 

SOUTH AFRICA'S NATIONAL CENSUS FOR 2022

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr K M MMOIEMANG: Deputy Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

 

That the House-

 

(1) welcomes the 2022 South Africa’s national census results which were handed over to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Tuesday, 10 October 2023;

 

 

(2) further notes that the census 2022 ... [Inaudible.]

 

... tool at the disposal of government and policy makers as the data contained in a census is most crucial and critical in informing the planning, budgeting and ... [Inaudible.] ... making work of government;

 

 

(3) further notes that the 2022 South Africa’s national results show a remarkable increase in population and service delivery;

 

(4) recognises that the census shows that in 1996 only 80% of households in the country had access to piped water against 92% in 2022;

 

 

(5) further recognises that the proportion of households using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased significantly from 58,1% in 1996 to 94,7% in 2022;

 

(6) further believes that therefore the Census 2022 will assist in pointing especially to the lawmakers and government where progress has been made as well as challenges that need to be resolved; and

 

 

(7) further applauds Statistics SA for the credibility and integrity of the magnitude of data they have collected that went into compiling and work that went into compiling Census 2022.

 

 

Agreed to.

 

 

ROAD ACCIDENTS AT R36 - BETWEEN LYDENBURG AND BAMBI

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Ms H S BOSHOFF: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

 

That the House-

 

 

 

(1) notes with concern that three persons sadly passed away on Monday, 3 October 2023, when two articulated trucks were involved in a side sweep collision on the R36 between Lydenburg and Bambi;

 

(2) further notes that another person sustained critical injuries and was subsequently airlifted to a nearby hospital;

 

(3) recalls that the R36 has claimed many other lives over the years;

 

(4) recognizes that like many accidents have been caused by the roads, bad conditions and the non-completion of contracts to improve these conditions;

 

(5) acknowledges that one of the contractors suspended its work due to payment related issues and the noncompliance of the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads, and Transport to provide the agreed upon materials, as indicated by the departmental spokesperson, Mr Bongani Dlamini;

 

 

(6) further recognises that the department has indicated that the completion of the current refurbishments will only be completed by February 2024; and

 

 

(7) calls upon the Department of Public Works, Roads, and Transport to monitor the progress of the refurbishment

 

and to provide monthly updates to this Council on the progress, to ensure that it is completed by February 2024 to combat further accidents and to prevent the further loss of lives on this road.

 

 

Agreed to.

 

 

BRUTAL AND SENSELESS MURDER OF POLICE OFFICERS

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

Ms N NDONGENI: Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

 

That the House-

 

 

 

(1) notes with utmost concern and apprehension the brutal and senseless murder of police officers across the country;

 

 

(2) further notes that since the beginning of 2023 more than 15 police officers were killed and several more were left with care threatening injuries, leaving members of the police force fearing for their safety in the quest to serve and protect our people;

 

(3) acknowledges that the unabated senseless killing of police officers is not only a blatant attack against the state, but also a gross violation of the rights of South Africans by heartless criminals; and

 

 

(4) calls on Minister Bheki Cele to double the fight against the heartless and call us ... criminals who have declared violence and death against police officers.

 

 

Agreed to.

 

 

CRIME LEVELS CONTINUE TO RISE IN THE COUNTRY

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Ms D G MAHLANGU: Chairperson, I hereby give notice on behalf of the ANC:

 

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

(1) notes with utmost concerned the persisting high level of crime and blatant disregard of human life in many parts of the country;

 

(2) urther notes that the high levels of crime are exacerbated by a number of factors that include uttered disregard of the border management system of our country that has seen a frightening rise in cross- border crime, cash in transit crime, zama zamas and the illegal and forceful occupation of derelict and unoccupied buildings in our country; and

 

 

(3) takes this opportunity to express its support to the Minister of Police, the hon Minister Bheki Cele, for more resources to support the work of the police to defend and expand the capabilities of the police to speedily address some of these challenges, especially the organised armed crimes like the cash in transit crimes, the zama zamas and the outbreaks of fires and other natural disasters.

 

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

AGRICULTURAL SECTOR HARD HIT BY VIRAL OUTBREAKs

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

Mr D R RYDER: Chairperson, I hereby give notice on behalf of the DA:

 

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

(1) notes the simultaneous recent outbreaks of avian influenza and rabbit viral haemorrhagic disease in the Republic;

 

(2) acknowledges that these outbreaks have a devastating effect on our agricultural sector, and that the resultant impact on the rising food prices will be borne by South Africans who are already struggling to make ends meet due to the cost-of-living crisis;

 

 

(3) recognises that the Republic’s animal health system is woefully unprepared to deal with these outbreaks;

 

(4) calls on the state veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to act urgently to intervene in the management of these outbreaks, and to ensure that vaccines are procured to deal effectively with the H7N6 strain, which has destroyed the livelihoods of poultry farmers and to

 

improve the affordability of the rabbit haemorrhagic disease, RHD vaccine;

 

 

(5) further calls on the state veterinarian and the department to facilitate open channels of communication and ensure that affected farmers and other role players are kept well-informed; and

 

 

(6) requests the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Ms Didiza, to update this Council on government’s interventions to ensure that poultry and rabbit farmers are able to protect their workers’ jobs and are able to restart their businesses.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

PEOPLE OF DITSHOTSWANE DISPLACED FOR ALMOST 14 YEARS

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Ms C VISSER: Chairperson, I hereby give notice on behalf of the DA:

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

(1) notes the alleged constitutional infringement of the basic human rights of the forgotten people of Ditshotswane by the Tswaing Local Municipality, which relocated them to an open section of Agisanang ward 8 almost 14 years ago with the promise of a suitable housing development before they were forgotten;

 

 

(2) recognises that these people are forced to live in the most inhumane conditions without access to running water, toilets, and adequate shelter, and that their make-shift shacks are regularly blown away by strong winds and burned to ashes by veld fires, resulting in the loss of the entire existence of these vulnerable people;

 

 

(3) acknowledges that the right to adequate housing as enshrined in section 20 of the Constitution, and the right to access healthcare, sufficient food and water and social security as enshrined in section 27 of the Constitution are important basic human rights, which are indivisible and interdependent;

 

(4) calls on the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality and the Tswaing Local Municipality as the water and sanitation service authorities, and the North West Department of Human Settlements to intervene and prioritise the improvement of the current living conditions of the forgotten people of Ditshotswane; and

 

 

(5) calls on the Tswaing Local Municipality to prioritise the development of suitable housing for the forgotten people of Ditshotswane as a matter of urgency.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

SIX MILITARY OFFICIALS PERISH IN VELD FIRES IN LOHATLA

 

 

 

(Draft Resolution)

 

 

 

Mr W A S AUCAMP: Chairperson, I hereby give notice on behalf of the DA:

 

 

That the Council-

 

(1) notes with sadness the untimely passing of six military service men and women during the recent veld fires that ravaged the Lohatla Military Base;

 

(2) further notes that these and other veld fires recently caused extensive damage in Lohatla, Gamagara, Kuruman, Kathu, Daniëlskuil and other areas in the Northern Cape, North West and Free State provinces;

 

 

(3) acknowledges the sterling work of the various fire- fighting organisations, a large number of farmers, other persons and companies who unselfishly made their fire-fighting equipment and other resources such as vehicles and funding available, and put their own lives at risk to assist in containing the extent of the damage caused by these veld fires;

 

 

(4) recognises that there is an urgent need for fodder to be made available to those farmers who lost extensive grazing fields due to the devastating veld fires;

 

 

(5) calls on the premiers of the Northern Cape, North West and Free State provinces to declare the affected areas

 

disaster areas to assist with the release of additional emergency funds;

 

 

(6) further calls on the relevant members of the executive councils in these provinces to immediately approve the distribution of fodder from fodder banks to the affected farmers;

 

 

(7) also extends its sincere condolences to the families of the six military service men and women who tragically lost their lives; and

 

 

(8) thanks the various fire-fighting organisations, the large number of farmers, other persons and companies for their efforts to assist in fighting these fires.

 

Motion agreed to in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

COUNCIL ELECTS MS LINDA NELLIE MOSS AS THE PROGRAMMING WHIP IN TERMS OF COUNCIL RULE 22 WITH EFFECT FROM 17 OCTOBER 2023

 

 

(Draft resolution)

 

The CHIEF WHIP OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Chairperson, I move without notice:

 

 

That the Council-

 

 

 

elects Ms Linda Nellie Moss as the Programming Whip in terms of Council Rule 22 with effect from 17 October 2023.

 

 

I so move. Thank you.

 

 

 

Declarations of vote:

Ms N NDONGENI: Hon Chairperson, as the province of the Eastern Cape, we rise to express our support of the election of hon Linda Moss as the first woman Programming Whip of the Council since its establishment in 1997. This is another demonstration of the ANC commitment to gender equality and the advancement of women in all leadership positions in our country. We congratulate the ANC and the leadership of the Council, to make sure that before we end the Sixth Parliament, to demonstrate our commitment to break all barriers that exist in our society to ensure that this Council has its first black woman Programme Whip.

 

 

IsiXhosa:

 

Ndiyabulela, Sihlalo.

 

 

 

IsiZulu:

 

Nk L C BEBEE: Ngibonge Sihlalo ohloniphekile, iKwazulu-Natal iyakweseka ukukhethwa kukamhlonishwa uLinda Nellie Moss njengoba engowesifazane wokuqala ukukhethwa njengoSotswebhu weZinhlelo selokhu kwaqala le Ndlu ngo-1997. Ukhongolose usibonisile ukuzibophezela ekufakeni abesifazane kwizikhundla eziphezulu.

 

 

Ngiwethulela isigqoko lo mbutho kaKhongolose ngiphinde ngiwushayela ihlombe ngokuthi ukhuphule owesifazane kusikhundla eziphezulu futhi wawagqabula amaketanga wokuthi owesifazane kule mphakathi esikuyona ethi akukho angase akwenze ngokuthi kulokhu kukhethwe owesifazane okokuqala kulomkhakha woSotswebhu weZinhlelo zale Ndlu. Halala Khongolose! Ngiyabonga, Sihlalo.

 

Nk A D MALEKA: Ngiyabonga, Sihlalo, ...

 

 

 

English:

 

 ... as the province of Mpumalanga, we rise to express our support of the election of hon Linda Moss as the first woman Programming Whip of the Council since its establishment in

 

1997. This is another demonstration of the ANC commitment to gender equality and the advancement of women in all leadership positions in our country. We congratulate the ANC and the leadership of the Council, to make sure that before we end the Sixth Parliament, to demonstrate our commitment to break all barriers that exist in our society to ensure that this Council has its first black woman Programme Whip. Thank you.

 

 

IsiZulu:

Halala Mbokodo!

 

 

Question put.

 

 

 

Voting.

 

 

 

Agreed to.

 

 

 

Motion accordingly adopted in accordance with section 65 of the Constitution.

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: Let us then, at this point, congratulate hon Moss on being elected as the Programming Whip. Thank you very much.

 

DEBATE ON INTERNATIONAL RURAL WOMEN'S DAY 2023: EXPANDING AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR RURAL WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICA

 

 

The MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL

 

DEVELOPMENT: Hon Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, NCOP, hon members, the Chief Whip of the NCOP, delegates and also the MECs on the platform and my colleague Minister, Damini-Zuma, today we celebrate International Women’s Day under the theme, “Rural Women Cultivating Good Food For All.”

 

 

Probably all of us will need to ask why we celebrate this day. It is because we recognise the contribution of rural women, in shaping the future of their communities. Each one of us seated here today in this House, I am sure our grandparents, our mothers, our aunts and maybe even to this day, some of us may be cultivating the land in order to feed our families and our communities. Therefore, this day underscores the need for gender equality, empowerment and improved living conditions for rural women, as they are essential for sustainable development and the eradication of poverty in rural areas.

 

This celebration, aims to encourage governments, legislatures and civil society to pay attention to the rural women’s needs and assist and invest in them pursuing the political and socioeconomic empowerment of rural women and support full and equal participation in decision-making.

 

 

House Chairperson, as I prepared for this meeting, I thought of Mme Lebogang Dhludhlu who is actually running a poultry project in Tjakastad Trust which has got about 43 000 birds. I also thought of Thandi Mokoena of Ehlanzeni equally producing poultry. Anna Phosa in the Vaal the rural Transvaal who is farming on pigs and is actually at a commercial level.

 

There are many such women in our country, some of them which we may not call by their names, but they are there and they are hacking a living and making their communities to have good food.

 

 

International days like the one we are recognising today are powerful. Advocacy tools that help us to educate the public on issues of concern to mobilise political will and resources to address and reinforce our commitment to the ideals of our democracy. Today we recognise the crucial role the women and girls play in the ongoing fight of under-development in rural

 

areas. Fighting against poverty, hunger and economic hardships.

 

 

Recently, Statistics SA, reported that there are now sixty two million people in South Africa and 52% of them are women.

About 68% of this population, is residing in urban areas with the hope of a better life and economic opportunities. Because of limited opportunities in rural areas, especially for women, South Africa has become one of the countries in the world with the fasted urbanisation rate measured at 2,2% per anum since 1994. This indicates the speed at which the country should be producing food to feed its growing urban population.

 

I must however say that on one hand, this situation may look bleak, but it offers an opportunity for rural women to be able to feed these people who are in the urban areas. It is therefore important to look at our various resources both natural, financial and human capability on how we can use these to support women.

 

 

Behind our country’s food production, there are hardworking and committed women in farms, laboratories, park houses and other segments of food value chains. Yet women do not wield equal power or enjoy similar praises as men when we showcase

 

the successes of farming in the country. Perhaps it is because the larger proportion of land is owned by women or is it because men receive high wages than women even though at times they are doing similar work. It is for that reason that when we amended our beneficiary selection policy on land, we made sure that 50% of all land that government redistribute would go to women in order to address the land ownership and access gap.

 

 

The neglected role and contribution of women in agriculture partly contribute to the gender equality gap which we are witnessing every day in terms of access to finance and equal remuneration for the same work. To correct this the government has committed to empowering women in agriculture. From the political front, five of the provincial MECs are actually women, which we have seen that through their contribution in the sector have really brought up a lot of women into the fore in the agricultural sector as well as young women and girls.

Supporting women to participate and contribute meaningfully to agriculture and the rural economy has many challenges. This is the space which is largely controlled by men, particularly if one looks at the rural areas at the access of women to land.

 

Again the issues of influence to the markets and how the rules are determined in order to actually dominate the policy debate in the sector. To create a space and an opportunity for women, as government, we have reviewed our policies to recognise the central role that women, youth and people living with disabilities in rural areas are actually fully entrenched in the farming sector.

 

 

We have been able to ensure that through the grants that we have such as ... [Inaudible.] ... if one were to look at the profiles of the beneficiaries of the Presidential Employment Stimulus initiative majority of them are women. If you look at the comprehensive agricultural support programme and Ilima- Letsema, again in these instance the numbers are on the increase. For we have deliberately said we needed to target rural women and women in particular, because of the role that they play in feeding our nation.

 

When it comes to financing, we are engaging and working with our financial institution and development financial institutions to ensure that we can unlock more opportunities to finance women so that they can be productive. Currently we have a blended finance scheme which unlocks ... [Inaudible.]

... in public and private sector funding. At least 50% of all

 

projects approved under this scheme are for women-owned enterprises.

 

 

We have also recognised that women’s participation should go beyond the commercial agricultural areas and land reform farms. Subsequently we have mapped out the rural areas landscape and assisted in current use and future potential.

 

 

In an area such as in the O R Tambo region, particularly under Inkosi Dudumayo, we assisted women with water tanks which can be used both for their household water because water is life and at the same time irrigate their houses as part of empowering rural women to be able to become productive.

 

Working with Boxer Superstores as a retail sector, we train women in understanding the market and how they can produce quality good that can find their ways into our shelves. We are working with other government departments, nationally and provincially to have a systematic way in which we can intervene and support women in the rural areas particularly in commodities such as wool, mohair, soya beans, poultry, beef and goats, because we believe that these commodities in the agricultural sector women can actually amass more skills, but also well because these are part and parcel of the commodities

 

that they have they have and they work them. What they need is to upscale and update their intervention.

 

 

House Chairperson, invited by the MEC of Mpumalanga, Mme Shiba, I visited one of the rural projects that they have in Marapyane in the Dr J S Moroka Local Municipality, where working with the rural traditional leadership areas in particular they identified three young women and three young men and they were allotted land where now they are producing maize and also producing vegetables which have found their way in the market. Actually, out of their first produce which they took to Spar Supermarket satisfied with their quality – actually sorry not Spar Supermarket, but Pick ‘n Pay Store, they were assured that if they can show consistence supply of at least for three months they can be able to capture the provincial or even their national market.

 

 

These show the concerted effort where government can put in place to make sure that we do not only support women with seeds, but we nature through extension services and market access opportunities both locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally.

 

It is important as we have found that the issues of support must actually enable them that we interface with other government departments such as water and sanitation in particular, to make sure that harnessing water resources for women particularly in rural areas is enabled so that they can use them in producing their crops. The choices of irrigation infrastructure that we need to look at in supporting these women must take into consideration the scarcity of water in our country. These are the targeted interventions that have been done at various levels.

 

 

I know in the North West province for instance the food security programme where women are assisted with few chickens in order to be able to produce eggs for their families and also have access to poultry and be able to even sell to the market. These women are not only given these animals, but they are also trained in biosecurity so that they can ensure that the animal health of their animals are in good shape. They are given good breeds so that they can be able to get quality meat and quality eggs. It is for that reason that I appreciated the motion that was made by one hon member about the concerted efforts that we need to intervene of the issues of the avian flu and other animal diseases. I am happy because we are working with the agricultural community both smallholder

 

subsistence farmers and commercial farmers to make sure that we do what is necessary to prevent and ensure that we curb animal diseases before they can be adversely affecting our communities.

 

 

Hon Chairperson, we have put aside as a department an amount in which we can assist in social and economic infrastructure in rural areas, particularly in improving rural roads working with our municipalities. For it is in our view that if we are able to create road infrastructure that is accessible, we will be able to encourage both your input suppliers to come into the rural areas, but also to enable women to take their goods in the market.

 

 

I am heartened by a number of rural women in all the provinces who really take the feeding the nation as part of the cornerstone of their work, but also as a base from which we can grow. It is through your own interventions in terms of regulations, budgeting, but also in terms of policy that we are able as a department to put the resources that you have actually entrusted on us in supporting these women and young women too.

 

We have been working through Spatial Planning and Land Use Management Act, to actually assess the landscape in our rural areas so that we can zoom at a local level working with the traditional authorities to see the land space that has been put on agriculture and work with Agriculture Research Council to examine the quality of the soil and also the ecological environment and see what opportunities lie in those rural areas for productive use by women and men too.

 

 

We have also put skills development programme for our young people, particularly the National Rural Youth Service Corps, Narysec, Programme which since its inception, today has trained about 17 537 rural youth, where the majority of them are girls. A number of those exited have gained entrepreneurial skills which they have put to use in the sector of agriculture, construction, mining and manufacturing.

 

 

We would like to continue with such programmes because they enable young people to be exposed in a range of industries, but at the same time, be able to get skills that they can use in the future as in their enterprises.

 

 

Chairperson, in October 2021, President Ramaphosa launched Women Economic Assembly, Wecona, as the platform to co-

 

ordinate public and private sector initiative for gender transformation and empowerment. Such platforms help us to draw strength and wisdom from the private sector to tackle challenges faced by the women and girls in rural areas. They assist us in generating inside from the lived experiences of women and enable the mapping of the present and future pathways for an equal and prosperous society.

 

 

Hon Chairperson, I wish all women in our country a happy International Rural Women’s Day and also would like to congratulate the NCOP for having chosen today for all of us to debate the issue of rural women and their contribution to the agricultural sector in particular, but also in the economy and social development of our nation. I thank you.

 

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY FOR WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS

WITH DISABILITIES: Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, hon Amos Masondo ... [Interjections.]

 

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: Please speak to the microphone, hon Minister, and just raise your voice a little bit.

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY FOR WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS

 

WITH DISABILITIES: Okay. Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, hon Amos Masondo, is that better?

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: That’s better.

 

 

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY FOR WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS

WITH DISABILITIES: Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, hon Sylvia Lucas, House Chairpersons, Minister, hon Didiza, and Deputy Ministers and hon members, this debate on the International Day of Rural Women it’s very important because as we know rural women tend to bear the worst brunt of everything that is happening in our society. They bear the worst brunt on poverty and also on literacy, on economic issues, on education, and even in terms of digital divide, the rural women tend to be worst hit. Therefore, this debate provides us with that opportunity to reflect on the struggles of rural women as we approach the 30th year of our democracy.

 

 

It is most important that as we reflect on these challenges, we also highlight the positive interventions by the government to improve the lives of women as we continue to build a just and equitable democratic society. The face of poverty in the world, not just in South Africa and not only in the rural

 

areas tends to be that of women. However, in South Africa tends to be that of a rural and peri-urban African women. While inequality remains considerably high in South Africa, it is women who continue to bear the worst brunt of socioeconomic disparities, particularly as articulated by the World Bank study that showed that rural women have proportional discriminated against opportunities, assets, wealth and even just general opportunities that are there in the country because of their geographic location. Therefore, in South Africa the report shows that a profile of the poor shows a typical poor household as rural and headed by a single economically inactive female black South African.

 

 

Poverty is higher in rural than urban areas, and the gap between rural and urban poverty rates widened between 2006 and 2015. Not only is poverty head count ratio higher in rural areas compared to urban areas, but poverty is also deeper, and more unequal in rural areas as well. Poverty is higher amongst individuals living in female-headed households compared to those living in male-headed households. Participation in economic activities matters for poverty reduction, the nonworking and economically inactive experience, higher rates of poverty than those who are active. Food insecurity is gendered and more prevalent among the black African

 

population. Rural areas have the highest poverty concentrations.

 

 

The findings of this report remind us that women empowerment is fundamentally about empowering society as a whole, and that there is no country that has successfully advanced whilst remaining indifferent to the ongoing structural and physical violence on women and their right to self-actualisation.

However, let me say that looking at the census results, it shows that a lot of work has been done and there has been lots of improvements, because according to the Statistics South Africa, more than half the population, 51,1 of the South African population females, and also according to the General Household Survey, about 42% of households are headed by females. While women empowerment is central to the global development agenda and is a stepping stone to gender equality, a report released by Stats South Africa shows the following improvements: The recent census 2022, shows that if we take education, for instance, the following gains have been registered for persons 20 years and older between 1996 and 2022. The percentage of those who have completed secondary education has more than doubled. There has been improvement in the rural areas as well. Numbers of those without any schooling have significantly dropped, and that’s true for

 

rural areas as well. Those with post-school education have nearly doubled, and there has been improvement in the rural areas also. Households that reside in formal dwellings have increased, sharply from 65,1 to 88,5. Therefore, there is improvement.

 

 

Electricity, despite our energy crisis, access to electricity for lighting has increased from 58,1% to 94,7%. Water, the percentage of households with no access to water has been halved from 19,7 to 8,7. Health, the following has been registered in the improvement to South African health care system. South Africa has several transformative and progressive policies and legislation aimed at advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality. A review of some of these indicators suggests that there is improvement in the quality of life of women over the years. We are experiencing a decrease in the deaths occurring during pregnancy, childbirth and a puerperium of a woman whilst pregnant within 42 days of termination of pregnancy. Therefore, definitely, there has been an improvement. Now, this is because of what the ANC government has done over the years. That’s why there are these improvements. In the words of President Samora Machel which ring true even today, and I quote:

 

The emancipation of women is not an act of charity, it’s a result of humanitarian or compassionate attitude. The liberation of women is a fundamental necessity for the revolution, the guarantee of its continuity and the precondition for its victory. The main objective of the revolution is to destroy the system of exploitation and build a new society which releases the potentialities of human beings, reconciling them with labour and with nature. This is the context within which the question of women’s emancipation arises.

 

 

Obviously, the ANC government has made sure that the emancipation of women is part and parcel of our freedom, and it understands that without the emancipation of women, society cannot reach its full potential.

 

 

From caregivers, community workers, factory workers, domestic and farm workers, to the highest level of private and public sector governments, the very base of our economy relies on the daily toiling of women, often for disproportionately low pay when compared to our male counterparts. For us to make a meaningful impact on the status of women, comprehensive and far-reaching changes need to take place within society as a whole to create conditions conducive for women to thrive and

 

participate meaningfully in the value chains within the economy.

 

 

In this regard, we reiterate our clarion call that women should be afforded all realisation of economic rights and independence, including access to employment, appropriate working conditions and control over economic resources, equal access to resources, employment and market and trade, business services, training and access to markets, information and technology, particularly to low-income women, access to strengthened economic capacity and commercial networks, the elimination of occupational segregation and all forms of employment discrimination, the promotion of harmonisation of work and family responsibilities for women and men. And of course, with the African Continental Free Trade, women must poise themselves to participate in that African Continental Free Trade, and in agriculture, and I’m glad the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development spoke before me. It’s very critical, especially in the rural areas. I think more still needs to be done. A lot has been done, I must say, but a lot more still needs to be done so that women in the rural areas can have access to food and food security, but also can also sell their produce to the market.

 

We are also championing economic development through the Women’s Economic Assembly, which was launched by the President, by implementing accelerated initiatives that address women’s unequal economic and social position through access to government and private sector procurement, employment, housing, access to land, financial resources and other income generating activities. The Women’s Economic Assembly is now being rolled-out to the provinces. The first one was in KwaZulu-Natal and the rest is going to be rolled out to other provinces. Further, we have adopted and all of government and then all of society approach to livelihood restoration, wealth creation, in efforts to improve the livelihoods of women, youth and persons with disability.

 

 

We are implementing various programmes in this regard which include, but not limited to the following: We are partnering with public and private sector to train and capacitate small and emerging smallholder farmers, particularly women in some of the poorest districts. Therefore, this involves crop and livestock farming. The primary objective of these projects is to reduce the impact of poverty, hunger, unemployment ... [Lost connectivity.]

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: It seems that you’ve frozen there, Minister. Let’s see what happens. Please, proceed.

 

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY FOR WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS

WITH DISABILITIES: Hon Chairperson, can you still hear me?

 

 

 

The CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP: We can see you and we can hear you, now. Please, proceed.

 

The MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY FOR WOMEN, YOUTH AND PERSONS

 

WITH DISABILITIES: Okay. Hon Chair, linked to integrated farming initiatives, we have signed agreements with public and private and nonprofit entities to train and capacitate women, youth and persons with disabilities on baking skills. In addition to creating much-needed jobs, this initiative will support local economies and empower communities to be resilient and self-sustaining. These efforts contribute to the overall development of women, particularly those in rural areas, amongst others. Before I conclude, I just want to quote another fine son of the African soil, Thomas Sankara, when he said, and I quote:

 

 

Comrades, the future demands that women be liberated, and the future, everywhere, brings revolutions. If we lose

 

the fight to liberate women we will have lost all right to hope for a positive and superior transformation of our society. Our revolution will then no longer have any meaning. It is to wage this noble struggle that all of us, men and women, are summoned.

 

 

Therefore, the ANC government understands this very well and that’s why we are determined to ensure that women are liberated. That’s why we are ensuring that we fight gender- based violence, and we ensure that women have opportunities in the economy. In fact, in the Bill that Treasury is piloting on procurement, we have ensured that there will be preferential procurement for women, youth and persons with disability.

 

IsiZulu:

 

Malibongwe! Ngiyabonga, mhlonishwa Sihlalo.

 

 

 

English:

Thank you.

 

 

 

Ms T C MODISE: Hon Chairperson, hon Minister Thoko Didiza, hon Minister Dlamini-Zuma, all Deputy Ministers that are in the platform, all Members of Executive Council, MECs, that are with us, hon members.

 

Hon Chairperson, close to 50% of agricultural labour force is women in developing countries and the sector is facing challenges through women lacking resources and opportunities to gain corporate competitive edge and sustain their farms.

 

 

There is a gender gap in agriculture which should be reduced for the purpose of increasing agricultural productivity, reducing poverty and hunger while encouraging growth.

 

In South Africa employment and income generation are leading to factors to determine where people are in terms of the poverty line, standards of living and inequality are closely related with gender, race and class.

 

 

Most black women in South Africa live in rural areas, facing extreme poverty with a lack of opportunity for employment, lack of socioeconomic development, lack of infrastructure and limited access to education and training.

 

 

Hon Chairperson, with almost half of the world’s agricultural workers being women, it is surprising that in Sub-Sahara African women, who are landholders, are only 15% to 20% while when it comes to smallholder farmers.

 

In 2022 hon President Matamela Cyril made a commitment that ANC-led government will expand the extensive agricultural sector including intensive participation of women and provide land, training programmes, financial support and logistics and transport, coal storage, packaging and access to technology; that was in his state of the nation address, hon President.

 

 

Rural women struggle to attain access to land, which could be used as a factor of production to allow them to have economic and productive resources, but also need land for source of status and recognition.

 

 

Rural women are facing barriers through institutional elements and cultural towards their socio recognition.

 

 

There is a low rate of involvement in technology research and development to access rural women in agriculture to achieve economic of scale.

 

Major challenges for rural women not to have access to new technology is funding, lack of education and training.

 

 

The government continues to review, amend, abolish laws and policies that show evidence of discrimination behaviour

 

against rural women, related to land and natural resources ownership and matters of inheritance with poverty and legal capacity.

 

The ANC-led government has adopted a Rural Infrastructure Development strategy to focus on supporting rural communities to access socioeconomic development services equally and making sure that rural women are also beneficiaries. What is being done is to make sure that there is a provision of rural infrastructure through working with the relevant stakeholders.

 

 

We have seen success through the construction of Agri-Parks, Farmer Production Support Units, FSPUs, and Agri-Hubs, which are in line with the Agricultural Agro-Processing Master Plan, AAMP.

 

 

The representation of rural women in these structures has also been a priority by government. We have seen success in FPSUs, providing rural women and all members of the communities with package houses with fridges, peeling machines for feed, all services such as access to extension of advisory services, training and information dissemination.

 

Government is committed to provide education for the empowerment of rural women to enable them to gain economic and political development in society.

 

Rural women must participate in the development and implementation of micro economic policies to have all full say on poverty alleviation strategy and be part of the National Development Plan, NDP.

 

 

Government should play a leading role in the growth of rural women in agriculture through making mechanisms for women to be moved from a low productive jobs to high productive jobs.

 

There must be access to decent and productive rural employment and non-agricultural income generation activities to transform rural women who works to the owners.

 

 

The financial sector must also be involved as most rural women in agriculture do not grow because of access to credit.

 

Government should encourage stakeholders in the communities to consult with legal practitioners on the matter of agricultural barriers such as customary laws.

 

We need to not only have any inward focus approach as the country, but also seek to build strong ties with other organizations like the Food and Agricultural Organization, the International Fund for Agricultural Development and the World Food Programme under the initiative Accelerating Progress towards the economic Empowerment of Rural Women.

 

 

This initiative seeks to empower rural women to have access to land, equal opportunities, to be part and leadership in order to be able to encourage government to develop and implement laws and policies that will speak to the promotion of rural women in agriculture.

 

Rural women in agriculture should benefit from the trade finance and should be able to market their goods and contribute to inclusive growth of their communities and the country at large.

 

 

The agricultural value chain is a significant component to job creation of the country through the land reforms to support smallholder schemes.

 

 

Rural women should be participants and in leadership positions to make sure that there is a comprehensive support with regard

 

to upgrading employment in commercial agriculture for women infrastructure.

 

 

Rural women own less land than men and the land they have access to is usually of poor quality, and women own few animals ...

 

 

Setswana:

 

... tse e leng gore kwa bofelong borre ba feleletsa ba di utswetsa basadi; ke tlhobaboroko mo go bomme ba e leng gore ke barui ba leruo.

 

 

English:

Hon Chairperson, rural women do not have credit and often are not in control of less credit they receive sometimes, and lack of access to extend extension services which hinders their ability to have resources such as credit and fertilisers.

 

 

This then prevents rural women from adopting to new technologies required for agricultural processes ... [Interjections.] [Inaudible.] ...

 

 

Hon Chairperson, as I conclude, access to education and training for rural women is still a challenge in South Africa

 

and with women’s capital being an important factor to determine the opportunities which exist in individuals in society are linked with their productive capacity of households and their economic and social standards.

 

 

With the households with evidence of human capital there is imperial evidence of agricultural productivity. This affects women in agriculture as most of men are more educated than women in the sector.

 

 

More rural women are unskilled as compared to the skilled men in agriculture, which also affects the productivity levels in in our areas, which makes it important for government to invest in training and development of rural women in our communities. [Time expired.] Hon Chairperson, I thank you.

 

Mr M NHANHA: Hon Chairperson and good afternoon hon members Today we are gathered here as this Council is tasked with a debate on a very important subject in the young life of the democratic dispensation.

 

 

IsiXhosa:

 

Le ngxoxo-mpikiswano ibaluleke ngakumbi kuba siluluntu sinenkolo yokuba xa uphuhlise umfazi uphuhlise isizwe.

 

English:

 

To develop a woman, you have developed the nation.

 

 

 

Back then, it was not encouraged to educate a girl-child because she was not expected to go in search of work. Girls were prepared for when they come of age in order to marry and start their own families.

 

 

This regrettable practice inevitably made a female gender inferior to its male species. With the discovery of gold in South Africa, men, in search of work went to work in the mines, further burdening the already disadvantaged women, often left to look after the homestead, which included providing food for the family.

 

 

In the event a woman did not give birth to a boy-child, or her son/s were still too young to work, she would have many household responsibilities to perform. A day in the life of a woman would start at first light by milking cows or goats so as to serve her mother-in-law coffee and fresh milk, cook breakfast, get children ready for the day. Midmorning she and other women will go to the ploughing fields either plough or de-weed or harvest crops. Come back in the afternoon to grind mealies ...

 

IsiXhosa:

 

... ukungqusha ...

 

 

 

English:

... and prepare dinner. I must hasten to mention many women in some rural areas of our country to this day are subjected to this hard work reminiscent of a day in a life of a slave. So, from time immemorial, women have been involved in agriculture and are still capable.

 

 

In 2022, during the National Council of Provinces Provincial Week, the Eastern Cape delegation went to Port St Johns, a vastly underdeveloped area but producers of some of the finest cannabis in South Africa. The local growers’ association is led by a young, eloquent and vibrant lady who gave us short and informative lecture about this plant. Like most politicians, I went in thinking I knew all. When we left the meeting, I realised how little I knew about cannabis which is affectionately known ...

 

IsiXhosa:

 

... EmaMpondweni njengegolide yasemaMpondweni ...

 

 

English:

 

... gold of Pondoland. These women have been cultivating cannabis for decades, they are not asking for massive capital injection Minister. They were asking for simple things that government could provide. For an example, the speedy issuing of permits, access to markets, support from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development through extension officers who by the way those extension officers by their own admission were not trained to deal with this new booming industry.

 

 

Hon members, South Africans are having it tough out there. Parents are struggling to feed their families. Food prices are spiralling out of control. In a space of a month this year, two single mothers in Gcuwa and Lusikisiki both in the Eastern Cape killed their children and took their own lives afterwards because they could not afford to feed them anymore. This is by no means a veiled attempt to politicise poverty, but an unfortunate reality many South Africans are faced with on a daily basis.

 

Speaking recently at a protest march in Butterworth in the Eastern Cape, DA’s Shadow MEC for Social Development hon Kobus Botha said, I quote:

 

The DA believes that one local measure for people to secure and sustain food security, is to establish and maintain more productive food gardens, not by neglecting them.

 

Hon members, it is embarrassing to tell this House that in the Eastern Cape for the 2023-24 financial year, the ANC government has only funded 26 food gardens for the entire province at a cost of R1 million. Between 2019-20 to 2023-24 only a mere 105 food gardens were established in the province,

29 of those have failed whilst others are at the intensive care unit barely surviving.

 

 

The Eastern Cape, I suppose like many other provinces governed by the ANC is talking big whilst they are unable to deliver and sustain food gardens to the poor and marginalised. Of course, the Western Cape government is a cut above the rest.

It is in the league of its own. Later in this debate hon. Wendy Kaizer-Philander will elaborate on the real and tangible successes of the DA government that get things done.

 

Only the DA can rescue South Africans. When we win the 2024 elections, South Africans will taste true freedom.

 

 

IsiXhosa:

 

Ndisatshaya. Enkosi.

 

 

 

Ms N N PIETERS (Eastern Cape): Hon Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, hon Minister, hon members and delegates from provinces, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. This week the United Nations Women’s Day marks three United Nations observances that reflect women’s key role in development.

 

 

October 15 was International Rural Women’s Day, October 16 was World Food Day, and October 17 was International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. The International Rural Women’s Day draws attention both to the contribution women make in rural areas and to the many challenges that they face. This International Day, established by the General Assembly in its resolution 62 of 18 December 2007, recognises the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women, in promoting agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty.

 

 

At the tenth session of the Regional Conference on Women in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2007, the member states of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean expressed in the Cuito Cuanavale Consensus their decision to

 

promote the establishment of an International Day of Rural Women, in order to explicitly recognise the economic contribution of rural women and the development of their communities, especially with regard to the unpaid work they perform.

 

 

In his message for International Rural Women’s Day, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on countries to take action to ensure that rural women and girls enjoy their full human rights. Those include the right to land and security of land tenure, to adequate food and nutrition, to a life free of all forms of violence, discrimination and harmful practices to the highest attainable standard of health, including sexual and reproductive health and quality, affordable and accessible education throughout their lives.

And this is in line with our government policies.

 

 

Hon Chairperson, rural women are key agents for development. They play a catalytic role towards the achievement of transformational economic, environmental and social changes required for sustainable development, but limited access to resources, health care and education are among the many challenges they face. The provincial government is working

 

closely with the private sector in order to maximise investment opportunities.

 

 

On Friday, 29 September this year, premier Mabuyane hosted an investment conference where R127 billion of investment was committed by 18 business entities that will be able to create jobs for the people of the Eastern Cape. Chairperson, it is pleasing to note that the Eastern Cape economy grew by 0,5% and our sector contributed 4%.

 

 

As a province, the addition of 144 000 jobs in our economy is a positive trajectory we want to maintain because there are still far too many citizens of our province who remain unemployed. Every day, our minds are occupied by unlocking more opportunities for economic growth so that a woman and other designated groups who need a job can get one. As the Eastern Cape province, we appreciate Minister Didiza’s unwavering support and interventions when we ask for them.

 

 

On the farmer support and development programmes, as the province, we have established a blended finance facility with the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, ECDC, with a total funding of R50 million which prioritises women and designated groups. We were also able to set up full demonstration

 

facilities for hemp and cannabis production and rural market centres which are meant for small-scale farmers continue to be opened in rural areas so that we can support women out there. Training of farm workers is provided to agricultural workers to improve their livelihoods. And a total of 88 044 households were supported with food production packages during these years and received technical assistance to produce their own food. It is not true that there are only 20. As the only department, excluding the social development department, we support 20 000 every year.

 

 

The department has supported 29 villages in Amathole, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo, with spring water in areas where there was no access to water. The water is used for consumption of food production. This programme has created

1 265 temporary jobs. A total of 41 610 women and 8 352 young people were supported in various agricultural and rural development group projects across the province. And the majority are from the rural areas.

 

Hon Chair, we continue to prioritise women’s emancipation in the agricultural sector through the allocation of 40% of the service delivery budget for women and other designated groups. For example, in our cropping programme for this financial

 

year, a total of 4 559 female farmers will be supported and 1

 

251 women will be beneficiaries of the agricultural infrastructure, for example, the stock water systems, fencing equipment, shearing sheds and others.

 

 

The government has trained more than 6 000 women entrepreneurs to take part in public procurement opportunities. The success of this programme has convinced us of the need to train many more entrepreneurs in their thousands.

 

 

Lastly, the Eastern Cape province is already benefitting from this initiative. We attracted a total of 1,12 billion US dollars and created approximately 2 184 opportunities in the province between January 2003 and 2023. The province’s foreign direct investment from India has, especially brought a positive impact in Tsitsikama and Bedford, creating 69 jobs and 347,6 million US dollars in capital investment. As the province, we have a footprint in Russia through edible fruits and nuts, electrical machinery, equipment and parts. In all the above, opportunities for rural women were created. A lot of work is done through the national department.

 

 

Hon Chairperson, in conclusion, the road we have travelled to reach where we have been too long. However, we cannot rest

 

until the challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality are addressed. As a South African anti-apartheid and human rights activist, umama Ida Mntwana wrote and I quote.

 

We know that as women we have many problems which hold us back from taking part fully in the struggle, and it is for precisely that purpose that we have come to break down these problems. Let us come out as a united force, let us take our place in the struggle for freedom.

 

 

All women, especially rural women, should take part fully in the struggle for economic freedom come out as a united force and utilise the economic development opportunities available to all women in the province, especially the majority that is in the rural part of the province. Even in 2024, hon Chairperson, the people of the Eastern Cape will give the ANC a mandate to go and change their lives. Thank you.

 

IsiZulu:

 

Nk L C BEBEE: Ngiyabonga Sihlalo weNdlu ngibingelele oNgqongqoshe abakhona kanye namaSekela abo ikakhulukazi izithunywa ezithekile ezivela KwaZulu-Natali. Ngiyabonga kakhulu.

 

English:

 

My chairperson with the first International Day of Rural Women, let me check with the first International Day of Rural Women, which was observed on 15 October 2008 the Day of Rural Women was established by the General Assembly in its resolution of 62 strokes, 1, 3, 6 of 18 December 2007.

Chairperson, the aim was to recognise and sustain the critical role-played by rural women and indigenous women in championing agricultural and rural development within the aims of improving food security and eradicating poverty. Approximately more than 16 million people reside in rural areas in South Africa and 50% of these statistics are women where the majority of them live under the poverty line and also remain unemployed.

 

 

Chairperson, and also they face challenges and limited access to health care, gender-based violence, to mention a few. Rural women in South Africa with the pivotal role in building the community still faces economic, political, and social stability due to the race, class and access to resources and opportunities. Chairperson, the South African government policy and legislation has always shown commitment to gender equality. The African National Congress in 1992 led policy document stated that women should have equal access to land as

 

men and women should participate in policy formulation and decision-making. Also, if you look into the Reconstruction and Development Programme of 1994 also recognise that women did not have land rights and the rate man had them and there was a gender gap in access to land. This shows the commitment to invest in agriculture for the purpose of women to also fully participate. There was a 1996 Green Paper on South African Land Reform. Chairperson, this outlined the mandate to end discrimination and improved gender equity in land ownership in our country.

 

 

The White Paper came in 1997 on the South African Land Policy to mandate the government to put greater emphasis on the matter of gender equity and how we should provide access to land for women and also promote effective participation of women and fully allow them in governance and decision-making. Chairperson, there has been a number of international commitments which have been made to assist in the process of empowering rural women as to eradicate gender inequality in rural areas, which is evident through article 14 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 1979.

 

Chairperson, there should be clearly defined policies by government in recognising the need to empower rural women in our country, to gain access to resources so that they can be competitive in their sector. More than 50% of rural households in South Africa are headed by women who also are the poorest. The rural women contribute to a large share of the agricultural workforce and produce food that is consumed locally, for instance, Chairperson ...

 

 

IsiZulu:

 

... laphaya eKZN umhlonishwa u-Super Zuma ukwazile ukuthi aqokelele amakhosikazi asemakhaya aseMpendle batshala amazambane abawakhiqiza bakhiqize baze bathole ngisho imakethe ukuze ukuthi bawadayise. Kungewona kuphela, yonke indawo uma uya ngakoShowe uthola lapha ama-co-operatives akhiqize ukudla onje ngamaklabishi, wena anyanisi nakho konke ukudla okukhona okufunekayo. Kepha imakethe yabo kumnandi ngoba u-Spar no-Pick & Pay bayathenga kubona. Kuhle kakhulu uma kuwukuthi kunalezi zinto ezenzakayo kumakhosikazi asemakhaya.

 

English:

 

Rural women and drives of food security and household welfare in their communities but are faced with lack of skills which affects their progress in the agricultural sector. We have

 

seen, especially with women, that there are still challenges and inequalities towards women politically, socially and economically, with the majority being black women, characterised by poverty, limited access to education and limited resources.

 

 

Chairperson, agriculture and agro-processing masterplan directs the agricultural sector to be export orientated and in the year 2022 agriculture exports in South Africa increased by four percent from 2021 with the value of US$12,8 billion. This success shows that there is productivity in the agricultural sector, but as government we need to make sure that there are always quantitative results to show how rural women have benefited and how they are participating. Chairperson, agricultural sector in South Africa is expanding and the plan is to maintain export diversification to build economic resilience when it comes to supply stock in the future. The South African government, through the Department of Agriculture, Land and Reform and Rural Development, has implemented the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which seeks to support subsistence producers with production inputs that they need to help with productivity. Chairperson, production input provided are poultry, grains, fruit, vegetables, small

 

and large stock will be distributed and women will be targeted in these initiatives.

 

 

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, DALRRD, has been provided with vouchers from R1300 to R14820 per subsistence products were submitted and there has been an increase of 151 and 26 000 vouchers, which is attributed females with 68%. The department for the year 2022-23 allocated Presidential Employment Stimulus funding amounting to R231 million to continue with the great initiative to support subsistence producers. We need the women empowerment, rural women empowerment in agriculture to be able to see if the success in the agricultural sector speaks to the growth of rural women in agriculture.

 

 

Chairperson we need to analyse the quantitative research which will show us where we are from year to year to see that we are achieving empowerment of women at the same rate as the empowerment of men in South Africa. Chairperson, we will have to use the gender parity index to see if the gender gap has been reduced when it comes to rural women in agriculture and men. Despite women labour being critical to the rural agricultural production system in the society, their distributions are often overloaded. Programmes that aim to

 

improve livelihoods and food security often fail to recognise the contribution and needs of rural women.

 

 

Chairperson, moreover, poor rural women are considerably more disadvantaged than their male counterparts because of an explicit gender bias in land allocation, access to credit, access to rural organisations, marketing channels and agricultural services in general. Chairperson, the process of land claims in South Africa must make sure that there is a clear investigation and research on any complaints and evidence that black rural women do not get approved as compared to men and women in the urban areas in order to support them and the next agricultural goals. The government today should provide a clear indication of how specific procedures have been developed to make sure that women are given a category on how they will receive the land.

Chairperson, this allows rural women not to be discriminated based on gender and cultural barriers which hinder them to be land owners or have the full control of the land at their disposal. Chairperson, under the apartheid government of South Africa the patriotic system in which land rights were denied to African women was perpetuated and disadvantaged groups, especially women suffered a great deal regarding that aspect. The effort is that the restitution programme is restoring land

 

rights to men and not focusing on black rural women. Power relations in society further curtail women’s ability to benefit from the restitution of the programmes.

 

Chairperson, rural women are less likely to be represented on community-based organisations representing claimants, groups and male claimants and claimed claimants tend to outnumber female claimants. Rural women in agriculture contribute both to cash and subsistence crops, with women engaging and different vast agricultural activities like planting, weeding, caring for animal, harvesting in the land and also land preparation.

 

 

IsiZulu:

 

Sihlalo ngingasho nje angisike kwelijikayo ukuthi amakhosikazi asemakhaya ayadinga ngempela ukuthi uhulumeni uwabonelele awaxhaze ngoba yiwona inzalabantu eyenza ukuthi emakhaya kukwazi ukuthi kulalwe kudliwe. Kodwa ke ngiyaziqhenya ngsifundazwe sami iKwaZulu-Natali ngoba wonke uMnyango uwuhlabile lelo kwelo ukuthi bagxile kakhulu komama abasemakhaya ngoba yilapho abakhuthele khona. Kangangoba bakwazile ukuthi babahlanganise babe wumbimbi, babe yimifelandawonye, bacela emakhosini izindawo. Bacela ezibhedlela izindawo ezikhona, bacela nasezikoleni izindawo

 

ezikhona ukuze kukwazi ukuthi phela kutshalwe. Sikwazi ukuthi kutholakale isivuno. Umama wasemakhaya uyakwazi ukuthi odle isizwe sonke Sihlalo ongaphambili. Ngiyabonga Sihlalo ngaphambili ngokunginikeza ithuba.

 

 

Ms N TAFENI: Hon Chairperson, today we commemorate International Rural Women’s Day: A day which recognises the critical role and contribution of rural women, in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty. This day also provides us an opportunity to reflect and identify the ways in which we can do more to empower women and girls living in rural areas, particularly when one considers that rural areas are the backbone of African economies.

 

 

Women in rural communities make up a large share of the agricultural workforce and perform the bulk of unpaid and domestic work within families and households, eradicating rural poverty and improving the wellbeing of their families. They participate in crop production and the carrying of livestock, provide food, water and fuel for their families.

 

 

They also carry out most of the unpaid care work which includes the caring for children, older persons and the sick.

 

Yet, women across all rural areas in this country face numerous challenges, most of which are directly linked to gender inequality and structural barriers, such as unequal access to power and resources, which disadvantages and discriminates against women and girls living in rural areas across all provinces.

 

 

This, in the face of many initiatives introduced to address the plight of women. This is mainly due as a result of the poor implementation of policies to empower women, inadequate budget allocations and lack of support received from the ANC- led government.

 

Chairperson, rural women’s realities in this country are still largely determined by race, class, and gender-based access to resources and opportunities. With black women facing an even greater lack of access to resources, living in poverty and conditions which threaten their wellbeing.

 

 

Women in rural areas remain most vulnerable to violence in their communities and homes. They have unequal access to family resources, such as land and livestock. They are not only poor in society as a whole, but also within their own families where they are burdened with multiple roles.

 

When women in rural areas do happen to find employment, they are mostly only employed as casual or temporary labourers during times of harvest or other labour-intensive farm work. Even though they are directly involved in the production of food, as farm workers, they sometimes go for days without eating. In cases where women work as seasonal workers on farms, they are often not granted the rights of permanent workers and are without pension funds, medical aid benefits or basic maternity benefits.

 

 

Women farm workers often receive lower pay in comparison with their male counterparts. They are often employed as ‘permanent seasonal workers’ who receive no bonuses or any benefits, unlike their male counterparts who do the same work as them.

And they are often simply regarded as an extension to their male counterparts, and not as ‘valuable’ categories of workers by themselves. They are often only on the farms because the farmer employs their male counterparts.

 

 

In parts of the Eastern Cape Province, in areas such as Tsholomnqa, Ndabakazi, Tsomo, iDutywa and Matatiele, rural poverty is still a challenge and the high rise in poverty produces and reproduces other human rights violations.

 

In the Western Cape, rural women fare much worse. They face forceful evictions by farm owners from their land and are enslaved by their employers who often pay them with wine instead of money, thereby creating alcohol dependence, which threatens any prospects of a better future for them and their families.

 

 

This is a historical problem because in our history, the relationship between farm owners and farm workers has always been one mediated by violence: From the violence of forceful dispossession of the land, to the slave-like working conditions on farms; and from the complete disregard of the human rights of the young and the old, to the forceful and illegal evictions of people who have stayed on these farms for generations.

 

 

Chairperson, since its inception, the EFF has embarked on numerous programmes and activities aimed at empowering and defending the rights of rural women, and in particular, women workers, as they are the most exploited sections of our society. The EFF has over the past ten years worked tirelessly to engage farmworkers, with the purpose of finding lasting solutions to their suffering and problems.

 

We know of the pain that farmworkers face, being mistreated and abused by their employers, and we call for an end to the abuse and mistreatment. In my conclusion, we therefore call on all rural women living and working on farms to vote for the EFF in the upcoming 2024 elections, so that they may equally benefit from their productivity. I thank you.

 

 

Ms D C CHRISTIANS: Hon Chairperson, the challenges faced by rural women in South Africa are deeply entrenched and heart wrenching. These women, who form a substantial part of the agricultural workforce, find themselves trapped in an unfair reality. They face a disproportionate lack of land ownership, limited financial access and the grim struggle to access markets for their produce. Gender bias remains pervasive, curtailing their access to essential resources and opportunities, leaving them to grapple with an uphill battle.

 

 

High illiteracy rates are a grave concern, particularly in the realm of information and communication technology, ICT. Access to formal employment remains scarce and cultural barriers to land ownership persist, particularly for widows. Restrictive sociocultural norms perpetuate inequality, discouraging women from engaging in development initiatives and job creation.

Inadequate access to justice and protection exacerbates the

 

challenge, especially when statutory and customary laws collide.

 

 

Violence and harmful practices continue to plague rural women’s lives. This is intensified by poverty, limited healthcare and the absence of public transportation. These circumstances make it excruciatingly challenging for women to escape abusive situations. Land access remains an ongoing issue, as Customary Law often restricts women’s land rights, and legal reforms often fail to manifest meaningful change at the local level.

 

 

Furthermore, technology accessibility is still a hurdle for rural women, with barriers including affordability, illiteracy, limited capabilities and discriminatory social norms, all serving to deepen the chasm of gender inequality.

 

 

But, here is the call to action: We must confront these challenges with bold and practical solutions. We need comprehensive land reform policies, and these should be prioritised with the promotion of women’s land rights, as well as ownership.

 

It’s not just about ensuring equality; it’s about granting rural women the tools and opportunities to break free from the chains of inequality. Furthermore, knowledge is a formidable force, and the development of gender-responsive agricultural extension services is essential. These services should equip rural women with the knowledge and skills they need to enhance productivity. Thus, not only improving their lives, but also boosting our agricultural sector and national economy.

 

 

Access to finance is critical, including microcredit programs tailored specifically to the unique needs of women in rural areas. This isn’t just about providing credit; it’s about breaking down the financial barriers that hinder rural women from investing in their agricultural ventures. The benefits of empowering rural women are profound and far-reaching.

Increased agricultural productivity is not just about feeding our nation, but it is also about improving food security, as well as stimulating economic growth.

 

When rural women gain access to resources and income opportunities, they become active contributors to poverty reduction in their families and communities. By promoting women’s participation in agriculture, we contribute to greater gender equality and drive forward the development of our

 

society. We cannot remain passive in the face of these challenges.

 

 

The DA is passionately committed to creating an enabling environment that empowers and celebrates the untapped potential of rural women in the agricultural sector. We don’t just talk; we act. Together, let’s take decisive action to ensure that rural women in South Africa have the same opportunities and rights as every citizen. This isn’t just a matter of equality; it is about harnessing the immense potential and strength that is within our rural women and to enable them to drive our nation toward greater economic prosperity and gender equality. Thank you.

 

 

Ms S M MOCHADI (Limpopo): Hon Chief Whip of the National Council of Provinces, the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, Ministers and Deputy Ministers, MECs ... [Inaudible.] ... provincial delegates, in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, I want to take this opportunity to appreciate to come and participate and debate in this day of International Rural Women’s Day.

 

 

Hon Chief Whip, today as we address the critical ... [Inaudible.] ... demands our attention, female headed

 

households ... [Inaudible.] ... of South Africa ... [Interjections.]

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Mochadi, we have a challenge, in many areas you are not audible. I do not know if the Table can advise ... [Interjections.]

 

 

Ms S M MOCHADI (Limpopo): You can’t hear me?

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Yes, but now we can hear you, but there are frequent interruptions on your speech. Please try again and maybe your location is better now.

 

 

Ms S M MOCHADI (Limpopo): Thank you, hon Chief Whip, it is because it is cloudy and raining in Limpopo where I am. That is why we were disturbed a little bit. Let me continue, hon Chief Whip.

 

 

It is a pleasure to participate in this debate on expanding agricultural and rural development opportunities for rural women in South Africa. The recently released national census data underscored the stark reality that women continue to make up a significant portion of our provincial and national

 

population. However, despite their numerical strength, many of these women and their families are trapped in the cycle of poverty facing extraordinary challenges.

 

According to the data from the living conditions survey, LCS, 2014-15 40% South Africans are living below the upper-bound poverty line. This is a sobering statistic, and it is deeply concerning that the burden of poverty is disproportionately borne by female headed households. The poverty gap and the severity of the poverty measures are larger tor these households compared to those headed by males. The figures paint a stark picture. The proportion of female living below the UPBL is almost 17% points higher than that of households headed by males – 49,9% versus 33,0%.

 

 

Hon Chief Whip, in traditional areas over seven out of every

10 households headed by females are living under the bound poverty line. I think this can be eradicated or it can be improved only if rural women living in areas of chiefs can be given enough land to produce more food for their communities. When they are compared to almost six out of every 10 households headed by males, this is a crisis that is taking place in the rural areas that affects the heart of our rural communities.

 

These statistics are not just numbers on page, they represent the lives of real people often living in the most challenging circumstances. Women who head households are shouldering an unequal burden. They are the backbone of their families and communities, yet they face barriers that limit their potential.

 

 

The Millennium Development Goals are our road map for the future. If we want to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, we need to give greater attention and invest more resources into improving the status of rural women, in particular. It is our collective responsibility as the NCOP to address this issue head on. We cannot afford to live rural women behind; we need to lift them up as we go up. As the years proceed, we must stand up for their rights and work towards tangible solution that will improve their lives, and by extension, the well-being of their communities.

 

 

To tackle this crisis, we must consider comprehensive strategies. First in those strategies, we must look at economic empowerment. We must create opportunities for rural women to gain education and skills, especially in this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where most of them didn’t even go to school, but need to be taken through. They learn so

 

quickly because they are committed. They need access to healthcare. They need to engage in incoming generation activities, particularly in agriculture and agribusiness. They need to be supported fully. Many of them have land next to rivers, but they can’t access the water. So, it needs us to see to it that rural women are also given water rights so that they can be able to maximise the irrigation into their areas.

 

 

Secondly, it is property rights. Women land and property rights must be protected and promoted in provinces like Limpopo. The land is still under tribal authorities as I alluded to, and this can disadvantage and discourage women as they continue in agriculture. Secured land tenure can be a pathway out of poverty for many.

 

 

Thirdly, it is social safety nets. We need to expand and enhance social safety nets that target female headed households in the rural areas of our provinces. No one should go to bed hungry or without access to basic services. Thirdly, it is quality education and health. Quality education and healthcare services, including family planning, must be accessible to rural women and their families.

 

Community engagement is fourth for local initiatives that empower women and promote gender equality should be encouraged and supported. Women’s voices must be heard in the decision- making processes of their communities. I am happy because the hon Minister has alluded to us that women are going to be considered when finances are given. They will be included in the bidding as it takes place. It shows our commitment as the ANC-led government. We consider the very same women because they are the majority and the ones who are always there at the voting stations. We should advocate for legal reforms that protect the rights of women and combat gender-based violence which is equal to COVID ... [Inaudible.] ... enforcement of these laws is equally vital.

 

 

Ladies and gentlemen, it is not enough to merely acknowledge the data; we must act. The National Council of Provinces in collaboration with other government bodies and non-government organisations, NGOs, and civil society organisations, have a pivotal role to play in turning the tide for rural women.

 

As I conclude, let us remember that when we uplift a woman, we uplift a family, we uplift a community, we uplift a province, and we uplift a country. Our commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the female headed rural households is a

 

commitment to the future of our nation. A future where equality and prosperity are not just ideals but lived realities. Let us work together tirelessly to ensure that rural women no longer bear the disproportion ... [Inaudible.]

... Together we can build South Africa where every woman, regardless of her circumstance and nationality has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the well-being of our great nation. Ke a leboga. Ndza khensa. Ndo livhuwa.

Ngiyabonga. Thank you. Bie dankie. Enkosi.

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Thank you very much, hon Mochadi, for your contribution to this debate once again. I have to indicate or rather ask for your indulgence, hon members, to go back to the floor of the Speakers List and ask hon du Toit, and then followed by hon Philander and then hon Shiba because I swapped unintentionally as I was proceeding with the Speakers List. Can I ask hon du Toit to take the platform? Thank you.

 

 

Afrikaans:

Mnr S F DU TOIT: Agb Voorsitter, word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? [Tusenwerpsels.]

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon member, can you please mute? Let us allow ... Can you please mute, so that you don’t disturb the speaker on the platform?

 

Afrikaans:

 

Mnr S F DU TOIT: Word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? Die vroue en dogters moes die swaarste prys betaal in ons stryd na vryheid en bestaan? Met die Verskroeide Aarde Beleid, wat op 16 Junie 1900 deur Lord Roberts geproklameer was, het Suid-Afrika letterlik in rook opgegaan. Plase, huise en gewasse is verbrand; vee is afgemaai en die vroue en kinders is na konsentrasiekampe gestuur, om te krupeer.

 

 

In die kampe was onvoldoende kos en mediese dienste en ...

 

 

 

English:

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Du Toit, are you there?

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: Hon Chair, this is really ...

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Du Toit, I

can hear you now. I think, there was a disturbance.

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: I was ...

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): My apologies for that. Table team, can you please fix these technical challenges that we experience.

 

 

Afrikaans:

Mnr S F DU TOIT: Word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? Die vroue en dogters moes die swaarste prys betaal in ons stryd na ...

 

English:

 

Am I audible, Chair? I was kicked out.

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Du Toit, I

 

suggest that you start afresh. This disruption has not been helpful to all of us. I think ...

 

Afrikaans:

 

Mnr S F DU TOIT: Word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? Die vroue en dogters moes die swaarste prys betaal in ons stryd na vryheid en bestaan? Met die Verskroeide Aarde Beleid, wat op 16 Junie 1900 deur Lord Roberts geproklameer was, het Suid-Afrika letterlik in rook

 

opgegaan. Plase, huise en gewasse is verbrand; vee is afgemaai

 

...

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Adv Nonyane, can you please assist. There is a name, Nolundi, appearing here. I don’t know if it is the person who is muting hon member. We cannot hear hon Du Toit. So, can the Table team please assist?

 

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: Chair, do we have to wait for feedback?

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): I believe now that the matter is sorted. My apologies for this inconvenience to your debate.

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: Chair, thank you for your indulgence.

 

 

 

Afrikaans:

 

Word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? Die vroue en dogters moes die swaarste prys betaal in ons stryd na vryheid en bestaan? Met die Verskroeide Aarde Beleid, wat op

16 Junie 1900 deur Lord Roberts geproklameer was, het Suid- Afrika letterlik in rook opgegaan. Plase, huise en gewasse is verbrand; vee is afgemaai en die vroue en kinders is na konsentrasiekampe gestuur, om te krupeer.

 

Daar was onvoldoende kos en mediese dienste in die kampe, en teen 1901 het sowat 25 000 kinders en 3 000 vroue in hierdie kampe gesterf. Hierdie kampe is gedurende die einde 1902 en begin 1903 gesluit, waarna die oorlewendes letterlik hulself uit die roet moes optel en hul toekoms, ons geskiedenis, met houtskool in die Afrika-klip moes skets.

 

 

English:

 

Did these women pity ... It seems as if this problem has not been resolved. Please, advise me. [Interjections.]

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Can I be advised by the Table team if there is any challenge, so that we can request hon Du Toit to come back after you have resolved this problem, or shall I proceed with the view that the problem has been attended to? [Interjections.]

 

 

Mr E M MTHETHWA: Hon Chair, I suggest that we move.

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): No, we are

dealing with a problem here. Hon Mthethwa, if we are advised, we will follow that advice. Hon Du Toit, can you take it from where we switched off the video, to increase the audio capacity?

 

Mr S F DU TOIT: Chair, I will do that, but that is not the problem. I am being removed from the system. The upload speed is about 70 megabytes. It is very high. [Interjections.]

 

Can I try gain. I don’t know whose admin ...

 

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Hon Du Toit, let us try again.

 

Afrikaans:

 

Mnr S F DU TOIT: Word daar genoeg erkenning aan ons volksmoeders gegee? Die vroue en dogters moes die swaarste prys betaal in ons stryd na vryheid en bestaan? Met die Verskroeide Aarde Beleid, wat op 16 Junie 1900 deur Lord Roberts geproklameer was, het Suid-Afrika letterlik in rook opgegaan. Plase, huise en gewasse is verbrand; vee is afgemaai en die vroue en kinders is na konsentrasiekampe gestuur, om te krupeer.

 

 

Daar was onvoldoende kos en mediese dienste in die kampe, en teen 1901 het sowat 25 000 kinders en 3 000 vroue in hierdie kampe gesterf. Hierdie kampe is gedurende die einde 1902 en begin 1903 gesluit, waarna die oorlewendes letterlik hulself

 

uit die roet moes optel en hul toekoms, ons geskiedenis, met houtskool in die Afrika-klip moes skets.

 

 

English:

Did these women pity themselves, see themselves as scorned widows, mothers to dead children or as the face of poverty?

 

Afrikaans:

 

Nee, ten spyte van die feit dat hierdie vroue letterlik als in die lewe verloor het, en dat daar selfs gepoog was om hul van hul menswaardigheid en geloof te stroop, het hul moedig die stofpad aangedurf, die voorbeeld gestel en geplant en gaan herbou wat verbrand was.

 

 

Hierdie vroue verdien om volksmoeders genoem te word. Hulle was vroue wat met die bietjie wat hul gehad het, beplan het, geplant en onderhou het en letterlik die vrugte van hul handewerk kon pluk. Hulle was Voortrekkervroue, wat nie soos sommige vandag, aan die slagoffersindroom ly nie. Hulle was letterlik boervroue, in die sin van die woord.

 

 

English:

 

South African women, Afrikaner women are renowned for having characteristics such as a sense of religion, bravery, love for

 

freedom, the spirit of sacrifice, self-reliance, integrity, virtue and setting an example to others.

 

 

Afrikaans:

Suid-Afrikaanse vroue speel steeds, soos altyd, ’n belangrike rol in die landbou. Die huidige regering gebruik ongelukkig goedkoop politiekery en wetgewing, om politieke punte te wen, en neem eintlik, in die proses, van die eer wat vroue toekom, by hul weg.

 

 

English:

On the International Day of Rural Women, UN women were calling for action to support rural women and girls and grow their capabilities and capacities, to respond to climate change through agricultural production, food security, and natural resources management.

 

 

One might ask, what effective, sustainable, successful, practical measures has this government implemented over the past 29 years, to empower women in the agricultural sector? The answer is, none! The ANC in government has failed these women.

 

Many female farmers like Marilize du Toit, Jeanine Claassen, Alanda van Zyl, and Rodene Lambrecht are faced with the same challenges as women 120 years ago - drought, rain and acts of God. Yet, they overcome and excel as female farmers.

 

 

Unfortunately, farm attacks and farm murders is a reality in South Africa. These women, female farmers, will not fall victim to the ever-present threats. So many of these women who lost their husbands and fathers in farm attacks, also picked up the pieces and are contributing to food security in South Africa.

 

 

In conclusion, ...

 

 

Afrikaans:

 

... boervroue in Suid-Afrika het stewig in die rooigrond vasgetrap. Julle krap steeds, soos die volksmoeders van ouds, die glasstukke van misleiding en propaganda uit die die meel, wat deur die regering aan die kinders gebied word. Julle handel steeds soos die deugsame vrou in Spreuke 31, deur na ’n stuk grond te kyk, dit te koop, te bewerk en ’n wins te toon.

 

 

Julle is steeds die matriarg, wat geloof tydens die ergste droogte behou, altyd onthou watter geestelike roete om te

 

volg, om by die put van lewenswater uit te kom. Ek gee vandag erkenning aan jul elkeen. Die VF Plus gee vandag erkenning aan jul elkeen. Boervrou, geloofsvrou, verbondsvrou! Dankie.

 

Ms W F KAIZER-PHILANDER (Western Cape): Hon Chairperson, and hon members, on behalf of the DA in the Western Cape, I welcome today’s debate on “Expanding Agricultural and Rural Development Opportunities for Rural Women in South Africa” in celebration of International Rural Women’s Day observed this past Sunday, 15 October 2023.

 

 

International Rural Women’s Day was established by the United Nations in December 2007 in acknowledgement of the critical role and contribution of rural women in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security, and eradicating rural poverty.

 

 

We commemorate this day to underscore the significant contributions of women in the development and progress of rural communities and their economies. This day also highlights the need for progress in terms of equality, empowerment, and the conditions of women in these communities.

 

To expand the agricultural and rural development opportunities of rural women, we must address the challenging conditions they face. We know all too well that South African women are disproportionately affected by the socioeconomic challenges within our society. Gender-based violence and unemployment remain among the most significant barriers women face, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

 

 

In rural South Africa, women are often the targets of domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, and abduction.

Inefficiencies within the SA Police Service, SAPS, a lack of visible policing, and socioeconomic challenges aggravate these conditions for rural women.

 

Recent unemployment statistics from Statistics SA also paints a bleak picture. In the second quarter of 2023, unemployment for women actively seeking employment had increased to 35,7%.

 

 

In 2015, a report released by the then department in The Presidency responsible for Women found that in rural areas, women are considerably more vulnerable to poverty than those living in urban areas. This is because women living in rural areas face higher rates of unemployment due to them being spatially separated from economic hubs of opportunity. In

 

fact, the report stated that rural women or urban females are worse off than their urban counterparts.

 

 

Rural women are also disproportionally affected by the harsh consequences of climate change, such as land degradation and growing water scarcity. This was found by a 2021 study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. This is consistent with a report by Daily Maverick in January 2023, which found that rural women farmers in the Southern African Development Community, SADC, are at the forefront of the climate crisis and are among the most affected by it due to them living in one of the most climate-vulnerable regions on earth.

 

 

These challenges combined with limited access to health care services, education, and land are but a few of the issues faced by rural women in South Africa. The sad reality is that these challenges will likely be compounded in the face of national economic regression and service delivery failures due to state collapse. The challenges faced by rural women are significant, yet there is room for optimism.

 

Hon Chairperson, the expansion of women’s roles and opportunities in agriculture is possible if we remove the obstacles ...

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): My apology, hon Philander. I once again appeal to hon members to please not disturb the speaker. Please mute your gadgets. Thank you. You can proceed, hon Philander. Sorry for that.

 

 

Ms W F KAIZER-PHILANDER (Western Cape): ... faced by rural women. However, this will require political will, not merely lip service.

 

In the DA-run Western Cape, the provincial Department of Agriculture is at the forefront of creating opportunities for women in the sector. The Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute continues to deliver world-class agricultural education and training. The institution is playing a pivotal role in cultivating opportunities for women in agriculture through skills development and training. In 2021-22, 69 bursaries were awarded to female students at Elsenburg, and of the 197 students who graduated from the institution in February 2022, 66 were female. These women will go forward and play a crucial role in the agricultural value chain. The

 

Western Cape Department of Agriculture will this year also support 3 000 food gardens across the province. The department also supported 700 new food gardens this year, with 66% of the participants involved being women. These food gardens are not only a valuable source to ensure food security, wellbeing, and dignity but they also provide opportunities for skills development.

 

 

The Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning is also making significant strides in upskilling and providing access to opportunities for women, especially in the rural development sector. Through the Expanded Public Works Programme, EPWP, the department’s entity, CapeNature, is promoting opportunities for women. In

60 communities, including rural towns and areas surrounding the entity’s protected zones, the programme has benefitted 60% of the participants who are women.

 

The Western Cape Provincial government also recognises that the agriculture industry is one of the biggest economic and jobs creators and is going above and beyond to ensure the security of rural agri-producers and workers.

 

In 2019, the Western Cape provincial government launched its Safety Plan and has spent R1 billion on its implementation. Through the Law Enforcement Advancement Plan, LEAP, in partnership with the City of Cape Town, the province has trained more than 1 200 officers and deployed them to the most troubled areas of Cape Town to make communities safer. The Safety Plan, however, also extends to rural areas through the K-9 and Rural Safety units, which utilise data-led and innovative approaches to enhance community safety and root out criminality. The units provide additional boots on the ground in rural communities historically short-changed by the SAPS.

 

 

Through its interventions and initiatives, the DA-run Western Cape is creating an enabling socioeconomic environment for rural women to access equitable opportunities for progress within the agricultural value. I thank you.

 

 

Ms B P SHIBA (Mpumalanga): Hon Chairperson of the session, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, hon Deputy Chairperson, Minister Mam Thoko Didiza, Minister Mam Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, hon members of the Council, hon MECs present here, secretary and officials of the NCOP, let me greet you.

Thank you for an opportunity to participate in this debate as we try to reflect on a number of issues relating to the

 

involvement of women in agriculture and the economy of the country and the world.

 

 

Addressing the Independence Day celebration in 1968 in New Delhi, Ms Indira Gandhi, the first woman Prime Minister of India at that time, said, and I quote:

 

 

We have to ensure that the dry farmers receive all possible assistance from us so that they can play a useful role in stepping up agricultural production. Our industrial progress is dependent on agriculture. Improved agricultural production has had a beneficiary effect on the industry. I have every hope that we will continue to make progress in this field.

 

 

These words uttered half a century ago are profoundly significant in many ways and are worth taken note of today. They are significant in a sense that her government realised that they had to provide support to those farmers who had been affected by the natural drought and did not have the capacity to self-irrigate their crops. Also, they are significant because her government observed that their industry’s progress was dependent on the improved agricultural production. They are even more significant because they came from a woman prime

 

minister many years ago where woman’s voice caried little weight and worth no attention.

 

 

The scenario above resonates perfectly with our situation currently in the country. The numbers tell us that our economy was kept afloat by the agricultural sector during the most difficult period, and recently it has the potential to lift it to the acceptable and safer levels.

 

In Mpumalanga the gender focused priorities have reflected in the agriculture departmental strategic plan includes deliberate programmes such as Phezukomkhono Mlimi, agri-hubs for agro-processing, the young farmer incubation programme and the general farmer training and capacity development. All these programmes are targeting 50% women involvement and beneficiation throughout the value chain of the sector.

 

 

Young women in the province who were part of our support programmes have taken the sector by storm and exceeded our expectations. They have since become our shining stars and ambassadors of our work in the country and the world.

 

 

It is worth noting that we have women that are flying the South African flag high when it comes to agricultural economy.

 

Lebo Dludlu of the Nkanyezi Poultry in Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality is producing broilers. She slaughters them, package and brand them. She currently secured a market in China to supply one million chicken per month and also package feet and wings. Lebo of Eggsellent by Lebo is farming with layers and selling eggs supplying several market channels including our own government nutrition programmes, GNP. Ms Thembi Kola in Marapyane in Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality is leading the Bakgatla co-operative which has six youth, of which three are young women. That was mentioned by the hon Mam Thoko Didiza. They are producing maize, sunflower and vegetables. Their grains are processed by a local miller called Ras owned by young farmers who are producing maize meal for schools and hospitals and animal feeds for livestock, pigs and poultry farmers. These young women are joining seasoned women in the province such as Ms Maya in the Depaleseng, Ms Mhlongo of Ajuri in the City of Mbombela, Ms Mathelela in Steve Tshwete, Ms Julius Ngube in Nkomazi and many other shining stars across the province.

 

 

Hon Chairperson and members, through the Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy, Plas, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development acquired strategically located land and allocated it to needy farm beneficiaries. For

 

this process priority has been given to women with agricultural skills, willingness to acquire the skills, female-headed households, youth, unemployed agricultural graduates and persons with disabilities. The allocation to women-led projects through Plas is as follows.

 

 

In Ehlanzeni District Municipality a number of farms allocated to women-led projects is 10 and a number of hectors is

514 899. In Gert Sibande District Municipality a number of farms allocated to women-led projects is 24 and number of hectors is 2 189 940. In Nkangala District Municipality the number of farms allocated to women-led projects is 23 and number of hectors is 111 554. In total, the number of farms allocated to women-led projects in Mpumalanga though Plas is 57, and the total numbers of hectors is 382 344.

 

In conclusion, I am sure you will agree with me that the agricultural sector has been the only positive venture during the difficult economic period. The vigorous involvement of women in the sector can only bring about the necessary change for radical economic boost as envisaged in the National Development Plan. Thank you very much, hon Chairperson.

 

Mr N M HADEBE: Hon Chief Whip, it is no secret that women are amongst the most vulnerable groups in societies across the world. Unfortunately, for South African women, there is no exception. Over the years, South African women have been forced to be resilient as they have to face dangerous and adverse situations daily.

 

 

For example, in the first quarter of 2023 to 2024, the total number of murders relating to women increased by 4,7% to 895. However, today we will be speaking about an even more vulnerable group of women, those who reside on the outskirts of areas that are regarded as important. Those who receive even fewer than the already heavily limited number of opportunities given to women and those who are forced to make do with what the little they have, namely the rural Women in South Africa.

 

 

The International Day of Rural Women is meant to recognise the critical role and contribution of rural women in enhancing agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty. However, rural women in our country have never been given the tools and resources needed to empower them in this way.

 

The Rural Women's Assembly recently stated that this day is not one of celebration for rural South African women as there are real and pressing issues faced by these women that have continued to be left unaddressed. Obstacles such as accessing food and water, gaining ownership of land and various forms of gender biases continue to plague rural women in our country.

 

 

These women are faced with a sad and painful irony. Women farmers play a key role in preserving traditional knowledge and practices and in promoting sustainable agriculture as they are the producers of our food, yet they also face immense food insecurity.

 

In the lead-up to this debate, we were provided with a fact sheet of opportunities for rural women in South Africa in which there are a number of theoretical empowerment solutions without any substance of how to actuate.

 

 

Unfortunately, this is the very reason why rural women face the same obstacles day-in-and-day-out. How are we going to ensure that rural women are granted the opportunity to own land or play a greater role in the decision-making processes relating to their communities?

 

We propose that greater attention and resources be given to civil society structures aimed at empowering rural women as these are the grassroots organisations that are in touch with the empirical needs of rural women.

 

 

Before we can expand and develop agricultural opportunities for rural women, we must first see to it that their physical and material needs are met. Thank you, Chairperson.

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Thank you very much, hon Bhungane, I always hope that the speakers follow your example, that is to always debate within your speaking time. Very meticulous. Thank you very much.

 

 

Mr D R RYDER: Chief Whip, the role of the government is to pool resources of the people and to use those resources to do the things that individuals do not have the individual capacity to do. Things like bulk water supply, sewerage treatment, or providing essential services to those who cannot afford to pay for those services.

 

 

Working people can afford to pay for some, if not all of their needs. Their reliance on the government is not substantial.

Wealthy folks get by without the government doing anything at

 

all for them other than collecting taxes from them and being an occasional irritation.

 

 

The marginalised in our society are heavily reliant on the government for their basic needs. It is the marginalised who feel it the most when a good government works well to improve their quality of life. Similarly, it is the marginalised who are most impacted when the government fails to deliver, and when I say most impacted I mean that they suffer the most.

 

 

Noting the structure of our society, where the burden of childcare in most homes falls to women; where the burden of caring for the family, preparing meals, ensuring school attendance and generally being the homemaker, falls to women. As men leave the home to seek opportunities and jobs, the women are left to ensure the home and family functions, as detailed by my colleague Mr Nhanha earlier on in this debate. Noting this heavy load, I think we can all agree that women need all the help they can get.

 

It is a cruel reality that rural women are the most in need of support. The demands placed on them were made more onerous by scarce resources, by long distances and costly travel, by infrequent tranches of support from the men eking out a living

 

in the suburbs and towns. Rural women find themselves in the most marginal position of all of our citizens, yet this ANC government has failed to take their plight seriously. If you want the proof just look at the Ilima-Letsema grant funding that the Minister mentioned in her speech.

 

 

The Select Committee on Appropriations did look at that. Just look at the disastrous spending record in rural provinces and look at the projects that they prioritise. As a result of their inability to work, fiscal dumping results in erecting fences for existing commercial farmers in many provinces. Not training or basic implements. The simple things as Mr Nhanha mentioned. Minster Dlamini-Zuma predictably rolled out the historical rhetoric underpinning the ANC’s ideologies. Those ideologies are repeated by most ANC speakers today in different forms. Discredited ideologies and rhetoric that died on the White Papers mentioned by hon Bebee and others.

Ideologies that have not improved lives.

 

 

 

How refreshing to hear from the hon Kaizer-Philander, who highlighted the work of the DA Western Cape at the Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute. A beacon of hope. No wonder the census figures that Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma

 

mentioned showed people leaving the Eastern Cape in droves for a better life in the Western Cape.

 

 

Add to that project the 3 000 food gardens that the provincial government is supporting with 700 new food gardens coming on board this year. That is the DA difference. Like the ANC, Ms Tafeni confirmed that she well knows the problems, she listed them carefully but offered no real solutions. No wonder the ANC and the EFF are getting along so well in their coalitions around South Africa.

 

Rather than promoting land invasions, Ms Tafeni, which offers no long-term security, the EFF should listen to hon Christians’ speech, watch it again on YouTube, that promoted access to title deeds for the beneficiaries of land reform.

Not the patriarchal system run by the ANC at the moment but proper individual land rights supported by title deeds to enable real economic independence. As the government fails all of us living in South Africa, it is perhaps important for us to focus on those who find themselves left bereft of hope.

 

 

People who saw a glimmer in the post-1994 rainbow dream but had it snuffed out by increasingly greedy, inept and uncaring government officials and politicians. We salute the women of

 

South Africa, particularly those living remotely where life is a daily struggle. These women have only one chance to be rescued. That chance lies with a DA-led government in 2024.

 

IsiZulu:

 

Woza 2024!

 

 

 

English:

 

Thank you, Chief Whip.

 

 

Ms A D MALEKA: Chief Whip, I am going to stand on behalf of hon Nkosi.

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Yes, I was

 

surprised that you don’t look like the hon Nkosi here on the platform. But you are standing for the hon Nkosi, thank you. Hon Maleka, you can proceed.

 

 

Ms A D MALEKA: Thank you, Chief Whip. Greetings to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ministers present, MECs, special and permanent delegates. The National Development Plan acknowledges that the rural economies have a potential of the agriculture and agro-processing activities that could assist in reality in eradicating poverty,

 

unemployment and inequality. Rural women in South Africa still have problems of having full participation in agriculture- based challenges they face, and the government has committed to assist and involve women in the Agriculture and Agro- processing Master Plan, AAMP.

 

 

The Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan seeks to provide a globally competitive and inclusive agriculture and agro-processing sectors that are focused on providing food security. In a world where women still carry out the majority of the care and domestic burden in countries across the world, South Africa is no different, with women facing the majority of income that is perpetrated through gender-based violence.

Rural women play an important role in building rural, socially and economically sustainable places, but still women are faced with limited access to credit, health and education, to mention just a few challenges.

 

Rural women should play a leading role in shaping laws and policies that affect them through being allowed space in leadership to better fight the challenges facing their communities, like food and nutrition security. It then becomes important for government to invest in training and development for women in rural areas and assist in developing them to

 

adapt the technological advancement to better serve their communities. Rural women have a significant role in agriculture through working in farms and also working on their own farms where they are able to produce food and cash crops through their agricultural operations of which involve crops, livestock and fish farming.

 

 

The country of South Africa is no different with most of the countries depending on subsistence agriculture where women face challenges of having low productivity because of challenges that affect them, which are less likely to be dominant towards men. Rural women lack resources and opportunities in a country where men go to look for work in cities, women are left with the responsibility of raising children while facing conditions of both economic and social shocks. Rural women manage their small farms and work on farms as employees while facing food insecurity, health ... [Inaudible.] ... when it comes to ownership of productive resources. When it comes to expanding agriculture and rural development opportunities for rural women in South Africa, the government has committed to designing and implementing policies that speak to challenges facing rural women like poverty and hunger. Inclusivity of women in senior levels in Ministries of Agriculture should be considered to establish a

 

developmental approach of programmes that seek to ensure that women in rural areas are aware of the duties from national level to local level in the agricultural space.

 

The ANC-led government has adopted rural infrastructure communities to access socioeconomic development services through the construction of rural infrastructure which contributes to agricultural production through the Animal and Veld Management Programme and River Catalytic Valley Programme. Such programmes have benefited a lot of women in rural areas in agriculture and focused on bulk water irrigation schemes, dipping tanks and boreholes, fencing facilitating and implementing the construction and grading of farm and village access roads.

 

 

As we carry on with building opportunities in agriculture for rural women, we want to continue with the establishment and development of co-operatives to enhance knowledge sharing and discussions amongst women in agriculture. We are committed to opening doors to decent agriculture and nonagricultural employment for rural women. There needs to be a development of institutions that will focus primarily in addressing social, political and economic challenges facing rural women in agriculture.

 

This comes with the view that even though there are associations like the farmers’ associations and other forums, they are still male dominated. This has an impact where the interests of women are not aligned with the interests of men who are predominant and occupy high positions in these existing institutions in agriculture. Gender issues should be included in all national and regional agricultural and food security policy plans to remove the gender gap in the sector where men are dominant. There should be clear stipulation on the matter of resources being allocated more for women than men. This will allow intervention by government to work so that rural women are seen that they do not have access to technology, infrastructure and market access, which hinders the growth of women in agriculture as compared to men and women in urban areas.

 

 

The sector is becoming more advanced and sophisticated with regard to technology, with adherence to international standards, with commercial oriented and globally integrated alignment. Rural women need to be equipped to deal with climate variability and migration patterns which are changing the landscape in rural areas of our country. Rural women in agriculture struggle to meet their short-term expenses and

 

usually rely on credit markets. It becomes very difficult without access to funding to improve on productivity.

 

 

Most rural women in South Africa wants to expand their agricultural operations, but have inputs like seeds, fertilisers and others. Access to credit is a leading factor to the slow development and growth for rural women in agriculture. It becomes very important for agriculture to ... [Inaudible.]

 

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Please, can we be assisted? Hon Maleka, we can no longer follow the debate.

Shahieda? I think there is a technical glitch. We are unable to hear the hon Maleka. Hon Maleka, are you able to hear us? Okay. Well, any advice, Shahieda? [Interjections}

 

The ACTING HOUSE CHAIRPERSON (Mr S J Mohai): Okay, you can proceed from where you left, hon Maleka.

 

 

Ms A D MALEKA: The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development established a beneficiary selection and land allocation policy, which aims to provide transparency in providing land and land to deserving beneficiaries. The policy aims to ensure that 50% of the land that will be allocated to

 

deserving beneficiaries will be allocated to women and youth of our country. And in the 2021-22 financial year, the target to redistribute 700 000 deserving farmers was achieved. There has been more than 50% of land transfer to women and

71 253 women benefited.

 

 

 

The government’s Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development was given a mandate to accelerate land redistribution in the 2021-22 financial year an amount of

39 037 was allocated with 20 358 hectares allocated designated groups. In the 2023-24 financial year, government is committed to further developing the agricultural sector of Communal Property Associations, CPAs, to make sure that adherence with Communal Property Associations Act. There will be 715 CPA executives who will get training on governance and administration skills. The department will further allocate

4 200 hectares of land to address inequalities through providing access to land with a budget of 645 586 for 2023-24.

 

 

We need to specifically, through quantitative research, provide statistical from year to year on how empowerment of rural women in agriculture has been achieved. The Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index, WEAI, is a tool that can be used to measure the empowerment of women through agency and

 

inclusion of rural women in the agriculture sector. The Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index will assist us as government to track progress towards gender equality in the agricultural sector to see the growth of rural women in the agricultural sector in their farms.

 

 

The country of South Africa’s export-oriented approach in the agricultural sector has allowed it to achieve a higher per capita income while it is still considered an emerging economy. This means that now the country does not face a significant threat with regard to food security. But we need to identify, going forward, how rural women benefited and how in they achieved success stories in the agriculture sector in our country. We must understand in our context as South Africans that we lost generational wealth as the black majority through the legacy of apartheid and colonisation, through deliberate dispossession of assets such as land and livestock.

 

 

To this end, the majority of black people in this country were denied opportunities to develop and get access to infrastructure and human capital. We know that it was until 1985 that agricultural policies in our country ... [Inaudible.] ... self-sufficiency through protection of

 

domestic commercial farming, which had a negative impact on the growth of the agricultural sector, especially rural women development which was stagnant.

 

The Integrated Food Security Strategy, IFSS, of South Africa seeks to achieve social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to our residents. The IFSS is committed to remove all colonial and apartheid laws which hindered the growth of agricultural sector and the enhancing of rural women in agriculture. Government needs to implement broad policy instruments on how rural women will be involved in sustainable increased production and contribute to growth and the income of the country as they grow themselves. The land and redistribution programme of women farmers in an aspect of gender seeks to expand women and youth for us to pave a new dawn which addresses the legacy of past racial and gender discrimination in the agricultural sector. The Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development, LRAD, is vehicle that can be used to address the injustices in the past and allow ownership of land and access to it for rural women in South Africa. Thank you, Chief Whip. I am done, Chief Whip.

 

 

The MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, LAND REFORM AND RURAL

DEVELOPMENT: Hon Chief Whip of the NCOP, to the hon members

 

who participated in the debate and those who are at home, I must say that I was heartened by the level of the debate on this matter because on one hand, it laid bare the historical injustices that we faced as a country. It also showed the gap in being able to forge in a consented effort on what we collectively need to do in addressing the problem of the ... [Inaudible.] ... But I also want to indicate, hon Chief Whip and members, that it is and it will be an insult for us to claim that very little has been done to uplift the women of our country and also in the agricultural sector and rural sector in particular.

 

 

It is important to appreciate that; we may not have achieved everything that we want to but it would not be a fact to say nothing has been done.

 

I want to take us back to 1994 with a matter that hon Bebee has raised in terms of Reconstruction and Development Programme. If you look at the first policy that was developed an intervention clearly directed to the most vulnerable women and children, free access to health for pregnant women, free access to health for children from zero to six, issues of school nutrition, issues of social grants to assist women with children, issues of school nutrition, issues of access to

 

education to ameliorate the challenge of those families who cannot afford. All of these both in health and education and social development were attending to the most vulnerable in our society.

 

 

And I also want to take us into the realities that most of those who live in rural areas also experience somewhat a change to what it may have been in the past. A number of our traditional leaders have actually given access to land for women either as individuals or as co-operatives who are actually working some of them in a commercial space even in those rural communities’ partnership between government and private sector. That uplifting of rural women in the agricultural sector is visible and is there.

 

 

I would like to take, hon Nhanha, to Santana in the Eastern Cape. I would like to take, hon Nhanha, to Engcobo in the Eastern Cape. I would like to take, hon Nhanha, to Limpopo in Muletjie. I am mentioning just these as an example of how the interventions of this ANC-led government have actually sought to improve the lot of our people in particular women. Majority of us here in this very NCOP and Parliament not long ago there was only one woman before 1993, hon Rina Venter, who was the Minister of Health. Just before 1994, hon Sheila Camerer, who

 

was the Deputy Minister of Justice. From the time from which the institution of the National Party government was in power there was only one woman in the decision making process.

Today, a majority of us who are speaking here in this debate, that democratic state led by the ANC have made it possible for us women from the urban and the rural to be able to participate in the decision making process.

 

 

If you look at a number of women who benefited as I said earlier from the Presidential Employment Stimulus Initiative where actually rural women who for the first time some of them were able to get support. And I must say that there was a lot of disgruntlement from some sectors of the political elite who actually felt that government was wasting money by putting it in subsistence agriculture but it is this intervention that enabled our communities to be resilient even in the most difficult time of COVID similarly with the COVID intervention that sought to give small holder farmers who were operating between R20 000 a year to a R1 million would get R50 000 as a form of assistance in order so that they don’t go out of their operations. Again, that policy intervention was attacked by some of the political elite in this Council some of them who are debating as though they have actually cared that much about the rural women fork. I am citing this because when we

 

attend to the challenges of women empowerment and particularly rural women, we also need to look at the speck in our eyes and see how we remove that.

 

I hear hon members from the DA, I said look at the Western Cape where we govern. Yes, I look at the Western Cape. When I look at the Western Cape as you have said, what have I seen in Philippi where some of the women are not given assistance by the Western Cape government. What do I see in some of the rural areas of Western Cape where some of the vulnerable women have never got any support? So, we all have a challenge equally to look at how our policies, our legislation and our programmatic intervention are actually doing to change the lot of our people. We are not yet there but we have started and I think it is important to say what more do we need to do and some of the hon members, have indeed made an indication of look at the indicators have a monitoring tool so that you can clearly say where you have made the policy like land allocation and beneficiary policy does it really target the 50% of women.

 

 

When we as legislatures look at the budget of our provincial and national government and the equitable share as well as the grants how do we measure that that budget goes to women. Yes,

 

I accept, that’s a good proposal that’s coming from you. One hon member, Du Toit, actually said to us look at the issue so that we are able to put to give independence to women.

 

This is a debate that we have been having with traditional leaders and their communities, CPOs, academics and everybody else last year in the Land Summit because indeed we need to look at how do we measure that our customer land tenure system is liberating not constraining people. So, I accept that proposal.

 

 

Another intervention was look at the financial instrument that you give how do you make sure that they target women both in the micro and in the macro space so that when we look at your blended finance of your Agri-Business Fund and any other fund, we need to be deliberate about how much of those allocated on an annual basis go to women and I accept. That’s a good proposal. At the same time, hon Nkosazana, has raised the issue of training which indeed I agree.

 

 

We need to look at how we empower women to build gfrom what they have because truth of the matter is, a majority of our women have been working the land for a number of years. But they might be requiring is upliftment in the skills set that

 

they have so that they can even be better in understanding the market. They can be better in line preparation and application of the chemicals on the goods that they are producing.

 

The other one said, Minister, look at how you pull the resources in the agri-parks so that through mechanisation, through storage facility these can uplift women so that in the way in which even decision making are being made in those facilities women are part and parcel so that we are deliberate rather than accidental and I would like, therefore, to thank women who have participated and our MECs who have actually show through examples what they are doing in each and every province even though there were two provinces today. I am sure if we had all the MECs participating, we would have been much more enlightened as to what is happening in the various provinces in attending to this challenge.

 

 

But again, if you look at statistics SA Census results, it also indicates to us where are you finding most women participating in small scale agriculture in this country. That data must help us in the targeting as we go forward in addressing the problem that we face. From where I am, I would like to congratulate those women, the policy makers and the legislatures who keep us on our toes on a daily basis to make

 

the lives of our women particularly rural women to be much better than it was before, and from where I sit, the democratic government of the ANC with all the interventions that has been made prior to 1994 while it was a liberation movement and now as a party leading government, we cannot deny that it has made a tremendous mark to change the lives of our people and more particularly women for the better. I thank, Chairperson.

 

 

The ACTING CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP (Mr S J Mohai): Hon

 

Minister, Thoko Didiza, your remarks bring to an end this important debate on the International Rural Women’s Day on the theme expanding agriculture and rural development opportunities on women in South Africa with emphasis to rural women in South Africa. We really want to express our appreciation to yourself Minister, Thoko Didiza and Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, who took her time to take part in this very important debate. In fact, we are always heightened by the effect that, you always avail yourself to participate in the debates in the National Council of Provinces and we really appreciate and take it as highly commendable that as member of the executive you always available.

 

Equally, I want to express appreciation to the Members of the Executive Council in provinces and special delegates who participated in this debate and it was really an important debate and I believe that as members of the National Council of Provinces, we will go back to some of the issues that are expressed in that debate and in much more meaningful way ensure that even in the conduct of our oversight, we appreciate where progress is made areas were we still continue to work together to ensure that the conditions of women in rural communities is uplifted for the better.

 

 

So, thank you, hon members of the National Council of Provinces and SA Local Government Association for participating in this Council. We also apologise for technical glitch in some areas because of weather conditions as all of us knows that unpredictable weather conditions because of the climate change and we had experienced that with Arabs members. But however, we appreciate and also the record of Hansard is always help us to go back into understanding in a much better way this debate. Thank you very much and I also want to acknowledge the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ntate Masondo, who started with this debate and I appreciate how he has helped me to steer the last part of the

 

debate, hon members. The Council then adjourned. Thank you very much.

 

 

Debate concluded.

 

 

 

The Council adjourned at 17:51.

 

 

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