A South African minister has called for greater co-operation between commercial farmers and new entrants during an Agri SA workshop this week.

Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform Gugile Nkwinti, said the government’s approach to land policy was based on deracialization of the rural economy, democratic and equal access to land, and retention of production capacity to support food security.

Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform Gugile Nkwinti

In response Agri SA deputy president Dr Theo de Jager said the market approach to land reform had not failed, while welcoming Nkwinti's acknowledgment that market principles should not be sacrificed due to some instances of corruption.

De Jager said Agri SA was concerned about the recent radicalization of the the land debate but was in favor of some of Nkwinti's proposed new institutions, so long as functions and powers were cleared in consultations.

"Agri SA recently created a platform for black commercial farmers where the views of these farmers regarding problems experienced with land reform could also be taken on board," de Jager said.

"We will give our full co-operation with regard to further policy development in terms of the principles as indicated by the Minister; however, the retention of agricultural productivity and market-related land reform shall remain of our core values in the process."

Photo: www.mg.co.za

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