Grain SA assures new ministries of partnership commitment

September 2024

GRAIN SA ASSURED THE NEW MINISTERS OF AGRICULTURE AND LAND REFORM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT THE ORGANISATION'S PARTNERSHIP COMMITMENT – A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FOCUS ON GRAIN PRODUCERS, ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND A CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS AN INCLUSIVE NATIONAL AND RURAL ECONOMY.

Grain SA eagerly anticipates depoliticised government service delivery, with a focus on public service efficiency and international competitiveness. This organisation believes that the Government of National Unity’s focus on nation building and inclusivity through economic growth will support the different departments to achieve goals as captured within the various well-developed plans.

The agricultural sector has a substantial capacity to sustain and create jobs in rural areas, especially if all the departments focus on the commercialisation of farmers and fostering an export-led agricultural sector. Agriculture already contributes significantly to social and economic job creation and growth in the broader economy and can do more with the right support.

John Steenhuisen (left), the newly appointed minister of agriculture, at NAMPO 2024. With him is Dr Dirk Strydom (right), managing director of NAMPO (Pty) Ltd.

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the South African agricultural sector can play a pivotal role in driving growth, enhancing productivity and fostering sustainability. By combining and optimising resources, these partnerships can improve service delivery and aid in developing the necessary infrastructure, such as irrigation systems, storage facilities and transport networks. Infrastructure is an essential component for agricultural success.

The adoption of modern technologies can revolutionise farming practices. Effective partnerships will stimulate and promote the use of technology in agriculture, enhancing productivity and sustainability. Combining resources will improve the focus on training and skills development, equipping producers and workers with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive agricultural landscape. Working together can help South Africa to gain better access to grain and oilseed markets, both locally and internationally, ensuring fair prices and wider distribution of produce.

Given the inherent risks in South African agriculture, forming a crucial partnership to implement comprehensive crop insurance schemes is essential. This collaboration would leverage the private sector’s efficiency, innovation and capital with the public sector’s regulatory framework and extensive reach, effectively mitigating risks for farmers.

Activating rural economies requires a comprehensive approach that includes prioritising infrastructure, often overlooked on the national agenda, and promoting local and rural manufacturing. It is essential to support rural communities through training and to create business opportunities that are linked to urban markets. To counteract or slow down strong urbanisation, local opportunities must be created, infrastructure connections to urban markets must be established, and safety and security must be ensured.

Agriculture is the backbone of the national economy, with substantial potential to contribute even more to the country’s growth and development. This potential can be realised through robust PPPs and the creation of an enabling environment that supports the agricultural sector’s expansion and innovation. The future of South African agriculture depends on collective efforts to nurture and sustain this vital sector. 

Publication: September 2024

Section: Pula/Imvula

Author: GRAIN SA PRESS RELEASE, 3 JULY 2024