Agriculture
The agriculture sector has significant potential for job creation in crops such as citrus, table and dried grapes, subtropical fruit, avocadoes, berries and nuts. Masterplans in the sugar and poultry industries are contributing significantly to increased investment, improved production and transformation.
To attract investors into the mining minerals needed in the new global economy, government will soon be finalising the Mining Exploration Strategy.
Government will continue to support the development of the upstream gas industry, as it holds huge potential for job creation and broader economic development. It will ensure that this is done in strict accordance with the environmental and other laws of the country, and that where there are differences, it worked together to resolve them in the interest of the country and its people.
“We live in one of the regions of the world that is most affected by climate change. We frequently experience droughts, floods and other extreme weather events associated with global warming.” – President Cyril Ramaphosa, SoNA, 10 February 2022, Cape Town City Hall.
Land reform
Expanding access to land is vital for government’s efforts to reduce hunger and provide people with meaningful livelihoods. Government is moving ahead with land reform in terms of the Constitution, and anticipate the approval of the Expropriation Bill during this year.
The establishment of the Agriculture and Land Reform Development Agency will be finalised this year. The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will finalise the transfer of 14 000 hectares of state land to the Housing Development Agency.
South Africa has enough arable land to support millions of thriving small-scale farmers in poultry, livestock, fruit and vegetables. Through the Presidential Employment Stimulus and the Solidarity Fund, over 100 000 farmers have already received input vouchers to expand their production. This scheme has proven to be effective and impactful.
The agriculture sector has also recognised the importance of supporting small-scale farmers and integrating them into value chains. Through the Sugar Master Plan, the industry has provided R225 million to over 12 000 small-scale sugar cane growers as part of a R1 billion commitment to support black farmers.
Government will be expanding the provision of input vouchers and calling on other sectors to join this effort, so that they can collectively reach up to 250 000 small-scale farmers this year.
Support to small-scale farmers
T
he agriculture sector has also recognised the importance of supporting small-scale farmers and integrating them into value chains. Through the Sugar Master Plan, the industry has provided R225 million to over 12 000 small-scale sugar cane growers as part of a R1 billion commitment to support black farmers.
Government will be expanding the provision of input vouchers and calling on other sectors to join this effort, so that they can collectively reach up to 250 000 small-scale farmers this year.
Related links
- Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development
- thedtic
- Speeches and statements - Presidential Employment Stimulus
Source: State of the Nation Address Highlights [PDF]
