Madam Deputy Speaker, the Department of International Relations and Co-operation has, through diplomatic channels, engaged the Zimbabwean government to intercede on behalf of South African farmers. However, this engagement has been constrained by the absence of investment protection mechanisms between our two countries.
The matter of compensation to farmers is negotiated between the affected farmer and the relevant Zimbabwean authorities. The applicable Zimbabwean law, the Acquisition of Farm Equipment or Material Act of 2004, provides that compensation be paid for improvements on land and equipment. In keeping with provisions of international conventions and applicable South African legal instruments, the department, on receipt of information that the life of a South African farmer is threatened, engages through diplomatic channels with the relevant Zimbabwean authorities. I thank you.