Agri SA and Agbiz meet with President Ramaphosa and Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma on Growth and Employment

22 August 2018

As part of a broader and comprehensive initiative, the agro-food value chain, as a major role player in the economy of South Africa, as well as a major employer, met firstly with Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma on 15 August, and then with President Ramaphosa and Minister Dlamini-Zuma in the afternoon of 21 August. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce a sector-based approach to inclusive growth and employment specifically for the agro-food value chain. 

Dr John Purchase, CEO of Agbiz, presented on South African Agriculture and Agribusiness: Growth and Employment. Mr Dan Kriek, President of Agri SA, emphasised the commitment of Agri SA and the Agri-Sector Unity Forum (ASUF) to resolve the land and other challenges confronting the primary agriculture industry specifically. Throughout the presentation, President Ramaphosa showed keen interest through incisive and relevant questions.  The president called on leaders in the sectors to work together with government and to remain engaged through Minister Dlamini-Zuma, who is Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation.

“The meeting was cordial and constructive, and provides a solid base for further in-depth engagement on the key issues confronting the sector. The broader agro-food industry will be developing a sectoral framework for consideration by Government and social partners”, Dr John Purchase, CEO of Agbiz, said.

Issued by Thea Liebenberg, Media Liaison Officer, Agri SA, 22 August 2018