Drought affected farmers have been warned against a scam which promises government funding in exchange for a fee.
Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, said the National Department Of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) had issued an alert about the alleged scam.
“We have received reports from DAFF that a man is asking farmers to pay R20 000 to receive R270 000 drought relief from DAFF. Government does not, under any circumstances, require farmers to pay for drought relief funding.”
Minister Winde said the Western Cape Government had released R34 million in drought relief funding in the 2015/16 financial year. A request to National Government for R88 million remains under consideration.
There have been no reported cases in the Western Cape.
To report an incident, kindly contact Andre Roux, Director at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, on 021 808 5010 or Carl Opperman at Agri Wes Kaap 021 860 3804.
For media queries, kindly contact:
Bronwynne Jooste
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
E-mail: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
