President of Agri SA, Dan Kriek, who attended the speech welcomed the focus on partnerships, agricultural finance, the commercialisation of black farmers and the productive use of land.
“It is also positive that the Minister has recognised the importance of ethical conduct, the need to strengthen institutions, the problems with communal property associations and the need to have a bigger focus on bio-security” said Kriek.
Agri SA is deeply involved in processes to develop a development financing model. Kriek called on the Minister to join forces with the private sector in this regard.
“What the Minister did not deal with, however, is the question of policy uncertainty around property rights. The agricultural sector sorely needs policy certainty.”
Kriek also reiterated Agri SA' s commitment to build an inclusive, thriving and globally competitive agricultural sector.
Enquiries:
Dan Kriek
Agri SA President
(C) 082 944 0566
Annelize Crosby
Agri SA Policy Head: Land
(C) 082 388 0017