In this week's segment, I focus on critical events shaping South Africa's agriculture and performance. I expect a mild contraction in the gross value added following two years of solid growth. Still, it is essential to note that overall activity has remained strong, and the sector has maintained its core contribution of improving national food security and job creation.

I also discuss in the podcast key programmes that were launched, such as the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan and the Land Bank's Blended Finance programme. These programmes are essential for the long-term growth of the sector.

The one area where there has been minimal progress and expectations were high at the start of the year is with the launch of the Agricultural Development and Land Reform Agency, which I believe could help accelerate the redistribution pillar of the land reform programme.

The Agency was mentioned on various occasions by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza. I understand that there has been considerable progress in structuring this Agency, and when launched, it could play an important role in land reform.

Credit:

Production by Lwandiso Gwarubana, Richard Humphries, and Sam Mkokeli Wandile Sihlobo website

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