During a recent Nation in Conversation panel discussion at NAMPO Harvest Day, Anlie Hattingh, eNCA news anchor, facilitated a discussion on the critical role of partnerships in the agricultural sector. Francois Strydom, CEO of the Senwes, shared his insights on how government can foster investment in the food and fibre sector to act as a key partner in sustainable economic growth.

Enabling private sector growth

It is importance that government functions as an enabler rather than an imposer of political philosophies. "Governments should be an enabling body. Private entrepreneurs do business. It's them that creates jobs."

Long-term economic stability relies on the private sector's ability to establish sustainable businesses, which in turn generate employment and drive growth.

Short-term interventions vs. long-term solutions

While acknowledging the necessity of short-term interventions, over-reliance on such measures can be problematic. "In the short term, if you employ 1,000 people cleaning up and cutting grass along the roads just before there's no sustainability about that. It's a short-term intervention." True economic progress comes from creating long-term, sustainable businesses that provide ongoing employment and contribute to economic stability.

Impact of political interference

Government has overstepped its boundaries after recent legislative efforts. “There’s a few pieces of legislation now that worries me where I see them overstepping and trying to impose their political will. That's a dangerous place for all South Africans." This political interference could hinder business decisions and ultimately harm the economy.

The importance of sustainable economic policies

South Africa needs economic policies that support sustainable growth, regardless of the election outcomes. "This election that's coming is not about whether the ANC will be more than 50% or less than 50%. It is how we will tackle the economy beyond that." The focus should be on creating an environment where businesses can thrive and, in turn, provide meaningful employment opportunities.

Job creation as a foundation for stability

With South Africa facing one of the highest unemployment rates globally, job creation is more urgent than ever. "We’re one of the countries with the biggest joblessness problem. This is a major. It's a powder keg and you see it exploding." Providing people with real jobs is essential for societal stability and individual purpose. "You have to give somebody a purpose to stand up, to get up in the morning. That is what gives people purpose to progress, to look after their children, to fend for them and care for them."

Strydom's insights at the Nation in Conversation panel highlight the critical role of government as a partner in enabling sustainable growth in the agricultural sector. By fostering an environment where private enterprises can thrive and avoid political interference, the government can help create lasting economic stability and meaningful employment opportunities. As the sector navigates the complexities of policy and infrastructure challenges, the emphasis on long-term, sustainable solutions remains paramount for South Africa's future.

OFM/Agriculture