These remarks were made by ActionSA’s Member of Mpumalanga Legislature, Thoko Mashiane during the Legislature Sitting.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Agriculture is the backbone of Mpumalanga’s economy, not only does it provide food security, but it is also the livelihoods for thousands of families in our province. Yet, despite its critical importance, our agriculture sector faces significant challenges that threaten its sustainability and the well-being of our communities.
One of the most pressing issues is the handling of land claims. Over the years, land has been returned to many rightful owners, a step that is both just and necessary. However, too often, this land has been handed over without the necessary training, support, or resources to make it productive. Land is more than just property – it is a vital tool for economic empowerment. But without the skills and knowledge to farm effectively, many of these beneficiaries are struggling to turn their land into a source of income and sustenance.
We cannot simply give land and walk away. We must ensure that those who receive land are equipped with the tools to succeed. This means providing training in modern farming techniques, access to markets, and ongoing support to navigate the complexities of the agricultural industry. Only then can we unlock the true potential of land reform, transforming it from a political milestone into a genuine engine of economic growth.
Small-scale farming is at the heart of our rural communities, yet these farmers often find themselves on the margins, battling to survive in an increasingly competitive environment. They face numerous challenges; inadequate infrastructure, lack of technical support, and limited access to funding. These obstacles are not just barriers to growth – they are barriers to survival.
To support small-scale farmers, we must create an enabling environment where they can thrive. This means investing in infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and rural roads, that make farming viable. It also means providing access to affordable credit and developing cooperatives that can help small-scale farmers pool resources, access larger markets, and reduce costs. By doing so, we can help these farmers move from subsistence to sustainability, and from survival to success.
The beneficiaries of our agricultural policies must not be left to fend for themselves. We need a comprehensive approach that ensures they have the training, support, and resources to make their land productive and profitable. This is not just about empowering individuals – it is about strengthening our entire agricultural sector, building a more equitable economy, and ensuring food security.
Mpumalanga is a province rich in natural resources, but we must also be rich in the way we invest in our people. The future of our agriculture depends on it. By working together, we can ensure that the land is not only returned to the people but that is becomes a source of prosperity for generations to come.
Thank you!
Empowering Mpumalanga’s Agriculture: A Call for Comprehensive Support and Sustainable Land Reform
These remarks were made by ActionSA’s Member of Mpumalanga Legislature, Thoko Mashiane during the Legislature Sitting.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Agriculture is the backbone of Mpumalanga’s economy, not only does it provide food security, but it is also the livelihoods for thousands of families in our province. Yet, despite its critical importance, our agriculture sector faces significant challenges that threaten its sustainability and the well-being of our communities.
One of the most pressing issues is the handling of land claims. Over the years, land has been returned to many rightful owners, a step that is both just and necessary. However, too often, this land has been handed over without the necessary training, support, or resources to make it productive. Land is more than just property – it is a vital tool for economic empowerment. But without the skills and knowledge to farm effectively, many of these beneficiaries are struggling to turn their land into a source of income and sustenance.
We cannot simply give land and walk away. We must ensure that those who receive land are equipped with the tools to succeed. This means providing training in modern farming techniques, access to markets, and ongoing support to navigate the complexities of the agricultural industry. Only then can we unlock the true potential of land reform, transforming it from a political milestone into a genuine engine of economic growth.
Small-scale farming is at the heart of our rural communities, yet these farmers often find themselves on the margins, battling to survive in an increasingly competitive environment. They face numerous challenges; inadequate infrastructure, lack of technical support, and limited access to funding. These obstacles are not just barriers to growth – they are barriers to survival.
To support small-scale farmers, we must create an enabling environment where they can thrive. This means investing in infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and rural roads, that make farming viable. It also means providing access to affordable credit and developing cooperatives that can help small-scale farmers pool resources, access larger markets, and reduce costs. By doing so, we can help these farmers move from subsistence to sustainability, and from survival to success.
The beneficiaries of our agricultural policies must not be left to fend for themselves. We need a comprehensive approach that ensures they have the training, support, and resources to make their land productive and profitable. This is not just about empowering individuals – it is about strengthening our entire agricultural sector, building a more equitable economy, and ensuring food security.
Mpumalanga is a province rich in natural resources, but we must also be rich in the way we invest in our people. The future of our agriculture depends on it. By working together, we can ensure that the land is not only returned to the people but that is becomes a source of prosperity for generations to come.
Thank you!