South Africa’s agricultural sector had its ears to the ground as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (Sona) set the stage for economic growth. With a focus on infrastructure, rural development, and the future of farming – including hemp and cannabis – here’s what the president had to say about critical sectors affecting the industry
During his speech, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding the agricultural sector, stating, “We want a nation with a thriving economy that benefits all.”
He highlighted the importance of agriculture in driving inclusive growth and job creation, pointing to massive investments aimed at revitalising the industry.
The president noted that the hemp and cannabis industry presents significant economic opportunities, though he did not provide extensive details on policy changes or implementation strategies.
Infrastructure, ports and water
Ramaphosa emphasised that infrastructure development is key to economic growth. “We are undertaking massive investment in new infrastructure while upgrading and maintaining the infrastructure we have,” he said.
The government plans to spend over R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years, including R375 billion on state-owned projects. This funding will be used to “revitalise our roads and bridges.”
The president also acknowledged challenges in South Africa’s ports and harbours, stressing that “we are steadily removing the obstacles to meaningful and faster growth.” He mentioned efforts to modernise ports and remove inefficiencies, which will benefit agricultural exports.
Water security remains a pressing issue, with Ramaphosa announcing progress on key projects: “The Polihali Dam will feed 490 million cubic metres of water a year from the Lesotho Highlands into the Vaal River System, securing water supply to several provinces for years to come.” This initiative is crucial for farmers relying on consistent water supply.
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Electricity, trade, and land use
On energy security, the president said the government is focused on enabling Eskom to function optimally, ensuring that the energy supply remains stable for industries, including agriculture.
Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s commitment to regional trade: “We will stand together as a united nation. We will speak with one voice in defence of our national interest.” The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is expected to unlock new markets for South African farmers and agribusinesses.
Land reform remains a priority. The president highlighted efforts to “clear the backlog of title deeds” and to “review land use” to ensure optimal productivity. He also called for a “fundamental rethink of how state land is allocated and used.”
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