With the clock ticking for political parties to chart a way forward in how the next South African government will be formed, fears and expectations from the agricultural sector have grown since the results were announced on Sunday.
Gauteng-based farmer Lerato Botha said it has been a nail-biting few days keeping an eye on the polls and she believes the election has proven that people want accountability.
“The shake in the numbers also shows us that people support different parties for various reasons. At the end of the day, we just want a functional country where all South Africans can benefit and participate,” she said.
‘Put the needs of people first’
One of her fears is possible unrest and riots because it usually sets the economy back immensely, especially when it comes to vandalism.
“I expect our leaders to take charge at this moment and ensure peace in the country. They need to reassure our people that as much as the outcome was not expected, we need to focus on taking the country forward.
“I hope that our leaders can get into a workable coalition with one another where they put the needs of the people first. We are on the back foot when it comes to service delivery so this is one of the first issues that need to be addressed. I hope that the country can move forward in a positive light and that we can all work together for the common good,” Botha said.
Dibesho Serage a fruit farmer in Limpopo, said he hopes that at the end of talks and when a new government is formed, the main pillars of the economy would be preserved, especially food production.
Related stories
- Beyond election promises: Agri leaders share expectations
- Elections 2024: Outcome crucial for SADC stability
“My fear about what is happening now is that I hope that people will not make trade-offs that are selfish and not worry about the business community, especially the farmers. The issue of land reform, and capacitating farmers, are critical activities and we are feeding nature.”
Consistency is key
“Consistency of food production must not be interrupted by the decisions that will be made in these following weeks because it’s clear that this is going to be a coalition government,” Serage said.
Kea Mnguni, youth chairperson of the African Farmers Association of South Africa (Afasa), said it is evident that South Africans carefully considered their choices in the 2024 elections, entrusting the elected parties with confidence.
“Congratulations to the elected parties, may they continue to serve South Africa and its people. We envision a government that will continue to work hard for its people, the country, and the enlightenment of the youth in South Africa within the agricultural sector.”
Kea Mnguni
Mnguni is hopeful that the incoming government continues to prioritise the development of youth and that young people will be presented with more opportunities, developmental support, and investment so that they can continue to shape the future and growth of agriculture and overcome hindrances and challenges.
“As we reflect on 30 years of democracy and the progress achieved, we are optimistic for youth transformation, encouraging active participation in democratic processes and influence on policies affecting us,” said Mnguni.
Role of commercial farmers
Meanwhile, Bennie van Zyl, general manager of TLU SA, shared his concerns about the direction of the new government. “I think at this stage we already broadly see what the outcome will be. South Africa is in for a challenge.
“There are many uncertainties now, especially regarding coalition formations. About two-thirds of the population voted for parties that lean towards socialism, communism, and nationalisation, themes often mentioned by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Meanwhile, one-third voted for parties advocating for private ownership and a free-market system, essential for economic growth,” he said.
Van Zyl pointed out the critical role of commercial farmers in stabilising the country. “If you take food away from the tables, then we have a real crisis. We need a government that understands this and brings sound policies to the table. Policies that ensure safety for investments and address crime are crucial.
“Everyone is waiting to see what the new government will do about load shedding and the stability of Eskom. These are fundamental issues that need urgent attention,” he said.
The chief executive officer of Fruit SA, Fhumulani Ratshitanga, reflected on the election results, stating, “Hardly a surprise, the outcome of the 2024 election can be viewed by the leading party as either bad news, due to diminishing support, or a growing necessity for smart collaboration to produce widespread inclusive growth,” she said.
Investment and economic stability
Ratshitanga said as the nation stands on the brink of potential governmental shifts, the need for foreign investment and economic stability becomes even more critical.
“Much-needed foreign investment hinges heavily on the dynamics of the new government and its use of economic growth levers. In line with the fresh fruit industry focus, we hope for notable strides towards strengthened collaboration,” she said.
Meanwhile, Free State Agriculture (FSA) stressed the urgency of addressing key concerns to steer the country’s economic recovery amid the political manoeuvring and deliberations.
“The organisation says the outcome of the election has left the political landscape in a state of flux, prompting intense discussions among parties to form coalitions.
“In this period of uncertainty, FSA underscores the need for policymakers to prioritise pragmatic solutions that address the pressing challenges facing the nation,” FSA said in a statement.
ALSO READ: The people have spoken: ‘Now we need stability in agriculture’
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
