There is enough food, say farmers

FARMERS have urged the public not to press panic batons following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to impose a nationwide lockdown.

AgriSA said farmers had a bumper season of harvest and there will be enough food during this period.

Pierre Vercueil, AgriSA president, said a lot of work had been done to ensure food security and supply.

“The farmers of South Africa will support our people and our country in these times of need and turbulence,” said Vercueil.

He said the country did not need to be restless. “There is enough food, we are self-sufficient and we are exporters. The farmers are keeping on farming.”

Vercueil said they wanted to ensure that from the side of logistics they were covered as this would provide certainty that food will be transported.

He said while the 21-day lockdown will have an impact on the economy, it was critical that essential services remained operational.

Transvaal Agricultural Union (TAU) SA also said it supported the lockdown, but the government needed to ensure farmers had exemption certificates.

“We are delighted that the president realises the critical role of the commercial farmer in ensuring food security and delivery,” said TAU SA president Louis Meintjies.

Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza said she would be making regular updates on crop estimates.

“The department has set aside R1.2 billion to address the effect of the coronavirus and ensure sustainable food production post the pandemic. The department has also availed R100 million to the Land Bank to assist farmers in distress.”