This comes after exports of these agricultural products were temporarily halted during the national lockdown period due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Agriculture is classified as an essential service during this national restriction period, which has now been extended to the end of this month, and operations can therefore continue as normal as an extension announced by pres Cyril Ramaphosa last Thursday, has no affect on agriculture. Meanwhile, cotton and wool were initially not classified as essential products during the lockdown period. However, Reggie Ngcobo, spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, confirmed to OFM News' Christal-Lize Muller that the export of these products can now continue after Transport Minister, Fikile Mbalula, amended regulations allowing trade to continue in these industries in the form of exports to mostly Asian countries. 

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Ngcobo further more appealed to South African farmers to continue producing food, especially as agriculture has been categorised as an essential service during the lockdown period. He also reminds small scale emerging farmers about the Covid-19-intervention to assist these farmers with help in the form of a voucher system to the value of R1.2 billion. The application process is open and farmers have until April 22 to apply either online at: applications@dalrrd.gov.za, or submit their application at their nearest agricultural district offices to be assisted. He said if small scale farmers qualify for the criteria they should make sure they lodge their applications.  

Ncgobo also urges all farmers to adhere to the safety measures, especially those who employed farm workers, need to ensure their safety is a priority because it is essential that food production in South Africa continues. He also appeals to communities to observe safety measures which include staying at home and avoid social contact where necessary in and effort to reduce the rate of the Covid-19-pandemic.

He calls on farmers to stand tall during the national lockdown as they play an important part in the value food chain.  

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