DALRRD Progress Report on Previous SONA Pronouncements
These are the pronouncements made by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) in the State of the Nation Address (SONA) speeches from 2020 to 2022. The DALRRD highlighted strategic outcomes and initiatives aimed at improving governance, land administration, redress, production, market access, rural economy, and biosecurity.
Improved Governance and Service Excellence:
The DALRRD has made significant progress in improving governance and service excellence. One of the key initiatives is the creation of the Agriculture and Land and Rural Development Agency, which aims to streamline and enhance service delivery. This agency will play a crucial role in implementing and monitoring the department's programs and policies.
Spatial Transformation and Effective Land Administration:
The department has prioritized spatial transformation and effective land administration. One of the notable achievements is the identification of 700,000 hectares of land for allocation to emerging farmers. This allocation has been completed in 2021, providing opportunities for previously disadvantaged individuals to access and utilize land for agricultural purposes.
Redress and Equitable Access to Land and Producer Support:
The DALRRD has made efforts to address historical injustices and promote equitable access to land and producer support. The department has implemented the Master Plans for the Sugar and Poultry industries, which aim to increase investment, improve production, and manage imports. These plans are crucial for supporting local farmers and ensuring a fair and competitive market.
Increased Production and Market Access:
To promote increased production and market access, the department has launched initiatives to support black farmers. The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has re-launched blended finance, creating a R1 billion grant fund to support black farmers. By the end of December 2022, the IDC had supported 19 transactions valued at R1.124 billion, with a focus on poultry farmers. These initiatives are essential for empowering black farmers and increasing their participation in the agricultural sector.
Integrated and Inclusive Rural Economy:
The DALRRD has prioritized the development of an integrated and inclusive rural economy. The department has allocated land to women and youth, with 34,000 hectares allocated to women and 19,000 hectares allocated to youth in 2020/21. This allocation aims to empower marginalized groups and promote their active participation in the rural economy.
Enhanced Biosecurity and Effective Disaster Reduction:
Biosecurity and disaster reduction are crucial for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of the agricultural sector. While the specific initiatives and achievements in this area were not mentioned in the provided references, it is important for the department to prioritize biosecurity measures and disaster preparedness to protect the agricultural industry from potential threats.
In summary, the DALRRD has made significant progress in implementing the pronouncements made in the SONA speeches from 2020 to 2022. The department has achieved key milestones in improving governance, land administration, redress, production, market access, rural economy, and biosecurity. However, there are still challenges to overcome, such as ensuring effective implementation of initiatives and addressing potential barriers to success. Continued efforts and collaboration between the government, stakeholders, and the agricultural community are essential for achieving the desired outcomes and promoting sustainable development in the agricultural sector.
