The Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP) is proving to be a step in the right direction for the agricultural sector. The latest figures from the AAMP Progress Report indicate that agricultural production volumes have steadily increased from 11% in 2015–2019 to 13% in 2019–2023.
According to the department of agriculture, this growth is attributed to the inclusivity and transformation agenda that the AAMP seeks to achieve.
Data indicates that there has been significant growth in production volumes of various agricultural commodities: maize production has increased from 34% to 65%, soya bean 72% to 80%, wheat 17% to 53%, deciduous fruits 17% to 49%, viticulture 25% to 62%, and tomatoes 8% to 94% over a period of three years.
Unity will drive growth targets
Minister John Steenhuisen said the AAMP is a collective plan of action to achieve the national development plan’s vision for agriculture and agro-processing.
The minister quoted George S Patton, saying, “A good plan properly executed today is better than a perfect plan executed next week.” He added that agriculture is fundamentally important to the country’s economy, as well as food security.
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“South Africa’s agricultural future will be determined by how well we work together. If we maintain the unity and resolve we have shown in this room, then the growth targets we have set, another 12 to 15% in the coming years, are not only achievable, they are within our grasp,” he said.
The AAMP was created by government, business, labour and civil organisations. It is implemented through the value chain roundtables and production schemes as delivery models, and they are both chaired by the government and industries in the agricultural sector.
Steenhuisen called on all stakeholders to come on board and make an effort to address the challenges facing the sector through solutions-driven and constructive engagements.
“The minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, reiterates that he will continue to support interventions that advocate for equality in terms of opportunities and inclusivity for a viable agricultural sector,” the department stated.
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