The KwaZulu-Natal department of agriculture and rural development has held its maiden post-budget consultative engagement in Musgrave, Durban, following the tabling of the department’s budget last week.
The session brought together industry leaders, farmer organisations, and key agricultural stakeholders to unpack budget priorities, share perspectives, and chart a collaborative roadmap for the province’s future.
The forum featured a strong panel of sector representatives, including Dr Siyabonga Madlala, executive chairman of the South African Farmers Development Association (Safda); Mbongeni Sikhakhane, chairperson of the African Farmers Association of South Africa (Afasa); Sandy la Marque, CEO of KwaNalu; Ntobeko Mthethwa, chairperson of the Provincial Livestock Association; Ntuthuko Mahlaba, chairperson of the Cannabis Association; and Dave Durham, chairperson of the KwaZulu-Natal Milk Producers Association.
Sugarcane industry applauds support
Madlala thanked the department for its responsiveness and ongoing support for sugarcane farmers.
“We truly appreciate the department’s commitment to supporting sugarcane growers in the province. Whenever we raise concerns, the department listens and responds. They are making great efforts to uplift the sugarcane industry,” Madlala said.
He noted that around R30 million has been allocated this financial year to assist farmers in planting new and improved sugarcane varieties.
Related stories
- New Sappi centre in KZN powers youth skills in forestry
- Hijacked and left for dead: KZN farmer finds healing in the soil
- R30m boost for black sugarcane farmers through Kagiso Trust deal
- KZN MEC honours trailblazers at Influential Women & Artes Awards
“This kind of support is critical as we work towards strengthening and growing the sector. We are an industry that is moving forward, and we cannot afford any more setbacks. We have already been hit hard by floods and now face additional pressure from rising tariffs. This year alone, we have seen a significant increase in imported sugar, and the impact of tariffs is being felt throughout the industry.”
La Marque praised the department’s work but emphasised a pressing need for infrastructure development.
“We are grateful for the good work being done by the department. However, there is an urgent need to prioritise the revitalisation of rural infrastructure, as it is fundamental to unlocking the full potential of agriculture in the province,” she said.
Livestock farmers voice daily challenges
Mthethwa shared that she had initially expected to simply attend the budget session as a listener but was invited to participate as a panel member.
“I was under the impression that I was here to listen, but I’m truly honoured to contribute to this important conversation. As livestock farmers, we face real and pressing issues daily, from rampant stock theft to the urgent need for functional dip tanks and a consistent supply of chemicals.
“I truly appreciate the department’s unwavering support throughout our journey. Knowing that our voices are heard and that more meaningful engagements like this are on the horizon gives us hope and strength to keep pushing forward,” she said.
Delivering her keynote address, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for agriculture and rural development, Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, emphasised the sector’s vital role in food security and rural development.
“Our agricultural sector is the backbone of food security and rural development. We cannot allow recurring disasters to derail our progress. This engagement marks the first of its kind. We are hoping that we have more of these platforms where our farmers can voice out their opinions to the department with the intent of driving comprehensive and equitable agricultural growth.
“We promise that through this initiative, we are going to improve the government of KwaZulu-Natal, particularly the agriculture sector,” she said.
READ NEXT: A new breed of farmer: Mmadipilo blends Brahmans and tourism
