The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs has learned that there are individual politicians who are posed to target the department to put it into disrepute.
According to the department, an advert is aired on radio stations calling on black farmers to attend an Indaba which is planned to take place from October 24-25 at the Mbombela Stadium.
The department says it would like to put it on record that it distances itself and that it is not in any way part of the so called “Black Farmers Indaba.
“During the October month, the department is well focused on to planting season with an interest of Black Farmers to support them to plant on their fields. The department would therefore like to encourage all farmers to go back to their fields and focus on our Phezukomkhono Mlimi/ Mhlali to produce food. We have various programmes and initiatives aimed at supporting farmers across all demographics. Our priorities this season are cantered around enhancing agricultural productivity, facilitating access to resources, and improving sustainable farming practices,” reads a statement from the department.
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DARDLEA also confirms that it has not sanctioned or endorsed the upcoming Black Farmers Indaba and encourages farmers to seek official channels for support and guidance. “We are committed to fostering an inclusive agricultural environment and urge all stakeholders to engage in dialogue that benefits the entire farming community rather than engaging in politically motivated actions that could undermine our objectives.”
