After a busy weekend of honouring the legacy of Tata Madiba, the agricultural community woke up to breaking news that at least three of the 2019 YAFF award winners have still not received their prize money. The shocking news, once again, suggests that although all farmers are equal, some are more equal than others.
The story is high-up on Food For Mzansi’s news agenda along with post-apartheid policies’ impact on black farmers, an exclusive live chat with celebrity chef Reuben Riffel while a free virtual experience for the foodservice industry started today.
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Government, where is our prize money?
At daybreak, Food For Mzansi published an exposé that shook the South African agricultural sector to its core. Three top, young agriculturalists turned to Food For Mzansi for help claiming hat they have been “disillusioned and cheated” by the 2019 Youth in Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Awards (also known as the YAFF Awards). It has been longer than a year since the awards ceremony, and these winners have still not received their prize money. We’re chasing government for answers.
Read: #YAFF SHOCKER: A year later, still no prize money for top farmers
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True impact of post-apartheid policies
As of today, Mzansi’s agricultural sector will no longer have to scratch their heads wondering why smallholder farmers and agribusinesses are still struggling to level-up. At 15:00 Food For Mzansi journalist Sinesipho Tom reports on how post-apartheid policies have thus far only benefitted commercial agriculture and agribusinesses.
Chief economist of the NAMC Dr Sifiso Ntombela tell us while it is commendable that some post-apartheid policies have strengthened agriculture, it has unfortunately been exclusive growth that only profited the very large previously advantaged farmers and agribusinesses. Agbiz chief executive Dr John Purchase also weighs in on the matter.
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Reuben Riffel on shocking covid-19 impact
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Be on the lookout for Food For Mzansi’s exclusive live interview with internationally renowned celebrity chef, restaurateur, author and television host Reuben Riffel. He will be live in conversation with Food For Mzansi’s editor, Dawn Noemdoe, talking about the brutal impact the covid-19 lockdown and its regulations has had on his restaurant empire. Join the 30-minute conversation live one Food For Mzansi’s Facebook page at 10:00 today.
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Mahala, virtual experience for foodservice industry
Foodies, mark your calendars because the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) is hosting an interactive, digital “restaurant week” for the foodservice industry.
The event titled “PMA Foodservice: Delivered” kicks off today and runs until Friday. You’ll be happy to know that registration is free, so you can get the powerful information, insights, business connections and solutions to help move your business forward for mahala. Gratis. Verniet. Register now to confirm your attendance.
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