Some farmers support the separation of the land reform and rural development department from agriculture. They believe this division would foster a more targeted approach to food production and efficient land redistribution.
On the other hand, others insist that departments like public works and Infrastructure should address South Africa’s poorly maintained water infrastructure and unclear water policies.
South African farmers and the broader agricultural sector have had a few weeks to adjust to the new ministers in key government departments that directly impact food production and transportation in the country.
Minister of land reform and rural development: Mzwanele Nyhontso
According to some experts, the pressing question now is how the newly appointed minister of land reform and rural development, Mzwanele Nyhontso, will unite South Africans on an issue that has divided them for generations.
Nyhontso, leader of the Pan Africanist Congress, answered the ANC’s call to form a Government of National Unity (GNU).
In a surprising twist under the GNU, the agriculture portfolio was separated from land reform and rural development, a move seen as beneficial by Emmanuel Maphorogo, a fourth-generation avocado farmer and founder of Thathe Agri Development in Limpopo.
“Agriculture is a very scientific and professional industry. The split will ensure that the ministry of agriculture focuses on food production,” Maphorogo said.
Maphorogo asserts that land reform should concentrate on redistribution, acquisition, and land use management. “There is a huge backlog in terms of land claims that needs urgent attention.”
Despite his support for the separation, Maphorogo emphasised the need for a robust monitoring system.
“There should be a monitoring system that ensures farmers do not feel threatened or insecure with the land redistribution process,” he said.
‘Don’t reinvent the wheel’
Peter Setou, CEO of the Vumelana Advisory Fund, said the new ministry of land reform and rural development must swiftly act on key recommendations from reports like the Motlanthe Report and the Presidential Panel.
“This is not the time to experiment with new things as there is a lot that can be learnt from what has been implemented thus far,” Setou said.
Additionally, the National Development Plan envisions leveraging agriculture to drive rural economies and create one million jobs by 2030. By increasing irrigated land by 500 000 hectares through better resource use, underutilised communal land could be brought into commercial production, Setou added.
“This will require that strategies be put in place to provide support to historically disadvantaged farmers in collaboration with markets.
“It is also important to look at what other organisations, such as Vumelana, have been doing over the years and use these lessons to upscale in order to have a meaningful impact.
“Success for the new department, hinges on engaging stakeholders to set realistic targets. Once agreed upon, these targets must be translated into a National Action Plan involving policymakers and role players in land reform,” he said.
“Implementation parties must be held accountable and provide regular reports on progress. If targets are not met, corrective actions should be agreed upon.
“Ultimately, success should be measured by the effective use of restored land to benefit beneficiaries and rural communities, and by how these efforts contribute to local economies.”
Related stories
- Rand Water woes: Gauteng water cuts threaten food security
- SA fruit industry poised for stronger collaboration with government
Minister of public works and infrastructure: Dean Macpherson
The department of public works and infrastructure also has a fresh face at the helm, with DA member Dean Macpherson stepping in as the new minister.
David Mthombeni, founder of Gegana Farming and a seasoned commercial farmer in Mpumalanga, is sounding the alarm on the dire need for better water infrastructure and clearer water policies. He argues that the current state of water infrastructure is poorly maintained, creating major hurdles for farmers.
“The improvement and better maintenance of water infrastructure will benefit farmers tremendously.
“The current user policy is not clear and is depriving emerging farmers of playing a meaningful role in the agricultural operation space. Also, considering the turnaround time for processing applications to get a water licence,” Mthombeni said.
Access to funding for farming water infrastructure could be a game-changer for farmers, especially in tackling the challenges posed by climate change, he added.
Minister of electricity and energy: Kgosientso Ramokgopa
While Eskom has successfully achieved over 100 consecutive days without load shedding under the leadership of minister of electricity and energy, Dr Kgosientso Ramokgopa, continued reform at Eskom and the broader energy sector is needed.
According to Mozayo Energy, a petroleum distribution firm, the spectre of another energy crisis looms large.
“South Africa has experienced recurring power shortages over the past decade, with rolling blackouts becoming a common occurrence.
“Eskom’s load reduction strategy, while necessary in the short term, highlights the precarious state of the nation’s energy supply. Without substantial and immediate investments in infrastructure and alternative energy sources, the risk of prolonged and more severe power outages remains high,” the organisation said.
Mozayo Energy said addressing the root causes of South Africa’s energy problems requires a multifaceted approach.
“There is an urgent need for substantial investment in upgrading and maintaining the existing power infrastructure to ensure it can handle current and future demands.
“South Africa must diversify its energy portfolio by investing in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This will reduce reliance on Eskom and create a more resilient and sustainable energy supply.
“In addition, Eskom’s financial woes must be addressed through reforms that include reducing its debt burden, improving revenue collection, and enhancing operational efficiency.”
READ NEXT: Farmers relieved, cautious over 107 days without load shedding
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain.
