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The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture today elected Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as Acting Chairperson of the committee, in accordance with Rule 159 of the National Assembly Rules.

The election became necessary following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appointment on 30 June 2026 of the former committee Chairperson, Ms Dina Pule, as Minister of Social Development, which left a vacancy in the committee’s leadership.

In electing an acting chairperson, the committee sought to ensure continuity in its oversight work. It also sought to enable the committee to continue discharging its constitutional responsibilities, pending the election of a permanent chairperson.

Following her election, Dr Nkabane thanked the other committee members for the confidence they have placed in her. She also committed to work collaboratively with all members to advance the committee’s programme during the interim period.

She indicated that one of the committee’s immediate priorities would be preparations for upcoming engagements on South Africa’s response to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak. These include planned interactions with stakeholders aimed at safeguarding South Africa’s livestock sector and protecting agricultural trade.

The committee expressed its appreciation for the constructive manner in which the election process was conducted and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oversight, supporting the growth and transformation of the agricultural sector, and ensuring accountability in the implementation of government programmes.

Issued By: Parliamentary Communication Services On Behalf Of The Acting Chairperson Of The Portfolio Committee On Agriculture, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane.