'Land reform can't be delayed'

2005-10-13 21:56

Kimberley - The agenda on transformation in the agricultural sector cann't be delayed nor can it be avoided, Agriculture Minister Thoko Didiza told farmers on Thursday.

"It may be necessary to reflect at this conference as to what kind of transformation we want in order to broaden participation... and thereby deracialise and become inclusive," Didiza told farmers at AgriSA's annual congress in Kimberley.

AgriSA represents many of South Africa's commercial farmers.

Referring to the willing-buyer, willing-seller debate on agricultural land, Didiza said one alternative could be Inkezo's approach in the sugar industry.

The entity brings together buyers and sellers of sugar land.

Earlier, AgriSA president Loerie Bosman told delegates that although there was a lively market for land, the landless did not have the means to buy property.

Must be 'driven at grassroots level'

"However, land owners can't afford to forfeit a fair price in the national interest when this could have an effect on their own survival."

Bosman said it was important, nevertheless, to find methods whereby the market could be supported in an acceptable manner.

"Transformation has to be 'driven at grassroots level' and the recently established Farmer Development Trust could become a key player in mobilising financial and intellectual resources for successful land reform and farmer development," he said.

Bosman said the importance of an appropriate and effective information system that could add value for policymakers and service providers was becoming crucial.

He confirmed there was concern within agricultural circles regarding the possible rejection of a market approach in terms of land acquisition by the state.

The two-day congress, which ends on Friday, is focusing on black economic empowerment in agriculture, land reform and economic problems.

- SAPA