Madam Deputy Speaker, the Maputo Declaration calls for the deployment of more effort and resources to agriculture to boost economic development. A bold, creative plan and massive financial resources are prerequisites to provide the necessary infrastructure; for example, dams, canals, pipes, roads, transport links, etc. This will enable agriculture to enhance its contribution to the fight against poverty; to revitalise rural areas; to facilitate empowerment, job creation, food security and export; and to establish our country as a major player in the agricultural fraternity.
Food producers are also faced with massive increases in input costs, for example, diesel and fertiliser costs have doubled in 12 months. Government will have to consider innovative methods to keep such producers on the land.
The African National Congress is committed to making sure that agriculture and other policies have a positive impact on household food security, food prices and environmental sustainability.
Let us all recognise that the agricultural sector is an important instrument, which should be used in our efforts to create work and fight poverty. I thank you.