DARDLEA Strategic Planning Session Highlights Crime and Growth Challenges in Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Land Reform’s three-day Strategic Planning Session concluded with strong calls from industry partners and commodity associations to address pressing challenges in the agricultural sector. Participants emphasized that crime is severely affecting the sector, resulting in national revenue losses of approximately 75%, equivalent to R1.3 billion annually. Livestock theft alone has caused significant financial damage, with some farmers reporting losses reaching a million Rand.

The session also addressed opportunities for greater support to farmers. Stakeholders recommended that the department strengthen its collaboration to help producers meet eligibility requirements for funding. This includes providing targeted support for emerging commodities such as bees, marula, cannabis, and hemp, which have high growth potential but often lack structured access to financial assistance.

Discussions centered on DARDLEA’s key commitments over the next five years, focusing on inclusive economic growth and job creation. The session reviewed progress made to date, identified gaps in implementation, and explored strategies for scaling up successful programs. A major priority highlighted was accelerating initiatives that drive economic growth, reduce poverty, and help manage the high cost of living.

Participants underscored the need to build a capable, ethical, and developmental state that supports farmers and rural communities. Recommendations included enhancing security measures for farms, streamlining access to funding, and investing in high-value and emerging agricultural commodities. These measures aim to create sustainable livelihoods and strengthen the resilience of the sector against both crime and market challenges.

The Strategic Planning Session provided a platform for stakeholders to align on priorities, set measurable targets, and develop actionable strategies to ensure that agriculture continues to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economy. By addressing crime, improving access to resources, and supporting diverse commodities, DARDLEA aims to foster a more inclusive and productive agricultural sector over the next five years.