AgriSA extends its congratulations to Minister Willie Aucamp on his appointment as Minister of Agriculture.

Agriculture remains a strategic sector for South Africa, contributing to food security, employment, export earnings, rural development, and economic growth. AgriSA looks forward to working closely with Minister Aucamp and the Department of Agriculture to advance the competitiveness, sustainability, and inclusivity of the sector.

AgriSA also wishes to express its appreciation to former Minister of Agriculture,  John Steenhuisen, for his leadership and contribution to South African agriculture during his tenure.

Minister Steenhuisen played an important role in strengthening South Africa’s agricultural competitiveness by supporting efforts to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, expand market access opportunities, and open new export protocols that have enhanced opportunities for South African producers in international markets.

Over the past few years, the sector has faced unprecedented challenges in Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD). Notable progress was made through strengthened collaboration between government and industry, the rollout of the vaccination programme,  including important work on Sections 9 and 10 of the Animal Diseases Act, and the establishment of the Industry Coordination Council, which has become an important platform for coordination between the Department and industry stakeholders.

AgriSA further recognises Minister Steenhuisen’s commitment to a collaborative, whole-of-government approach. Through his engagement with colleagues across energy, transport, policing, trade, and other portfolios, he helped elevate agricultural priorities within government and advance a more enabling environment for the sector.

AgriSA wishes him well in his new assigned portfolio.

AgriSA values the strong working relationships within the Department of Agriculture and looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Department in addressing key challenges and opportunities facing agriculture.

The organisation looks forward to engaging constructively with Minister Aucamp.

Enquiries

Willem De Chavonnes Vrugt, AgriSA President

+27 (0) 82 946 2303