Western Cape PLAS Farmers Engage Minister Nyhontso on Title Deeds

Yesterday, Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso met with a seven-member delegation representing Western Cape Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy (PLAS) farmers in Cape Town. The meeting was requested by the farmers to discuss urgent issues affecting PLAS beneficiaries, with a particular focus on the issuance of title deeds. Farmers highlighted concerns that the process of receiving title deeds in the Western Cape is slower compared to other provinces, despite their proven farming capabilities. They stressed that they have successfully maintained and made productive the land they lease, demonstrating readiness for ownership. The delegation emphasised that timely issuance of title deeds is essential to secure long-term investment and sustainability in their farming operations.

The PLAS farmers proposed the creation of a joint working group with the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development to address delays in issuing title deeds. The proposed working group would have a single mandate: to ensure that the title deeds promised to Western Cape PLAS farmers are delivered. The farmers argued that collaboration between the department and beneficiaries is crucial to overcoming bureaucratic delays and establishing clear timelines for resolution. They urged the department to recognise their contributions to land productivity and to fulfil its commitments without further delay.

Minister Nyhontso acknowledged the farmers’ concerns and committed to ensuring that the promise of issuing title deeds is realised. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between the department and PLAS beneficiaries to guarantee that farmers ultimately receive what is rightfully theirs. The minister emphasised that both parties need to work together constructively to achieve practical results, rather than allowing delays to impede progress. This approach aims to strengthen trust, improve accountability, and support long-term sustainability in the PLAS programme.

Following the meeting, both the minister and the farmer delegation agreed to establish a formal forum to address outstanding issues. A joint plan of action will be developed, outlining specific timelines and responsibilities to resolve the concerns raised by farmers. This forum will ensure ongoing communication and monitoring, providing farmers with clarity on when title deeds will be issued. The agreement marks a significant step toward improving service delivery and addressing longstanding delays in land transfer for PLAS beneficiaries.

The engagement underscores the commitment of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development to supporting PLAS farmers in the Western Cape. By combining structured oversight, collaborative planning, and accountability measures, the department aims to resolve delays in title deed issuance. Ensuring that farmers secure ownership of the land they manage strengthens agricultural productivity, encourages long-term investment, and reinforces the objectives of the PLAS programme across the province.