Issued by: North West Communication Service
North West Premier Popo Molefe today (Thursday) led a provincial multiparty delegation, that included the local ANC senator Mr Enver Surtee to a meeting with farmers' delegates from Brits, Swartruggens, Koster and Zeerust.
Discussions focussed on matters of security, agriculture, land and the role of women in agriculture.
These were addressed by the respective MECs, Satish Roopa and Rev J Tselapedi. An issue raised was stock theft that is the highest of all provinces and it was agreed new and innovative measures be evolved to combat stock theft.
Molefe thanked the farmers for the strategic role they play in the economy of the country and emphasised the need for closer interaction with government so new ways could be evolved to tackle farmersU problems.
"Our people do not feed on new flags and political slogans," Molefe said.
He urged farmers to train their workers in new skills to enable them to contribute effectively in the development of the economy, particularly agriculture.
"South Africa has joined the global economy and new markets are challenging us for supplies. New and innovative ways must be created to increase our output to meet these challenges," he said.
Molefe invited white farmers to effect a change of heart, forgive the divisive past and help in the reconstruction of South Africa by participating in the macro-economic development strategy.
Farmers pledged their support for the provincial government but raised questions of concern over strikes that affect the economy and agriculture in particular.
Black farmers appealed for an affirmative programme to launch them in agricultural enterprises.
Contact: Willie Modise 087 5584 087