South Africa’s agricultural sector stands at a crossroads. - Summary
With a rich history of commercial farming, the industry faces growing calls to become more inclusive, particularly for new and small-scale farmers, many of whom are from previously disadvantaged communities. A key question arises: can the sector evolve to accommodate these emerging farmers, potentially through identity-based programs that recognize their unique needs and backgrounds?
The need for change is evident. Small-scale farmers, numbering around 2 million compared to just 35,000 commercial farmers, play a vital role in rural livelihoods and food security. Yet, they often lack access to land, financing, training, and markets—barriers compounded by historical inequities. Identity programs, such as those targeting youth, women, or black farmers, could offer tailored support to level the playing field. For instance, the government’s Land Reform for Agricultural Development (LRAD) program provides grants to previously disadvantaged individuals, while the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan (AAMP) aims to integrate smallholders into value chains.
South Africa’s agricultural sector, a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, is poised for a significant transformation through the Agriculture and Agro-Processing Master Plan (AAMP). Launched in May 2022 by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) under Minister Thoko Didiza, the AAMP represents a social compact between government, industry stakeholders, labor, and civil society. Its goal is to reimagine an agricultural sector that is globally competitive, inclusive, and sustainable, aligning with South Africa’s G20 presidency theme of “solidarity, equality, and sustainability” in 2025.
The AAMP seeks to address longstanding challenges while capitalizing on the sector’s potential to drive economic growth, job creation, and food security. South Africa’s dual agricultural system—comprising roughly 35,000 commercial farmers and 2 million small-scale farmers—reflects both its diversity and its disparities. The plan aims to bridge this gap by fostering inclusivity, particularly for emerging farmers, youth, women, and persons with disabilities, while enhancing productivity through innovation and technology.
Key objectives include:
Expanding Market Access: Opening domestic and international markets for South African produce, building on the country’s status as a top exporter of citrus, grapes, maize, and wool.
Supporting Small-Scale Farmers: Integrating smallholders into agro-processing value chains to boost rural economies and reduce poverty.
Climate Resilience: Strengthening adaptation to climate change through sustainable practices and infrastructure investment.
Job Creation: Leveraging agriculture’s capacity to employ over 800,000 people directly and support millions more indirectly.
This plan is not implemented as all the Farm unions in South Africa did not agree and some issues- or was excluded from participation
Adapting agriculture to prioritize these farmers requires more than policy tweaks—it demands a systemic shift. First, land access must be accelerated through equitable reform, paired with secure tenure to enable investment. Second, financial institutions could develop products suited to small farmers’ realities, such as low-collateral loans or grants tied to identity-based initiatives. Third, training and mentorship, like that offered by organizations such as AFGRI or the African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (AFASA), could empower new entrants with skills to succeed commercially.
The potential benefits are significant: increased employment, reduced poverty, and a more resilient food system. However, challenges loom large. Budget constraints, as seen in Eskom’s financial struggles and the slow rollout of the JET-IP funding, highlight the difficulty of funding such transitions. Moreover, integrating small farmers into a sector dominated by large-scale operations risks resistance from established players unless incentives align.
Agri SA welcomes signing of the Agriculture and Agro Processing Masterplan
Yet, opportunities abound. South Africa’s diverse climate supports a wide range of crops and livestock, from grains to subtropical fruits, giving it a competitive edge. The rise of AgriTech, including AI-driven tools like self-driving tractors and digital platforms for market access, promises to boost efficiency. The AAMP’s multi-stakeholder approach—endorsed by groups like Agri SA, the South African Sugar Association, and the National Emergent Red Meat Producers’ Organisation—offers a rare unity of purpose, provided momentum is maintained.
South Africa’s G20 presidency theme of “solidarity, equality, and sustainability” offers a framework to guide this transformation. By leveraging identity programs to uplift new and small-scale farmers—whether through targeted grants, market access, or cooperative models—the agricultural sector could reflect the nation’s diversity while securing its future. The question isn’t just whether we can change; it’s whether we will commit to making it happen.
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