Chair, agriculture plays a central role in rural development and, with increasing numbers of people benefiting from land redistribution, support initiatives are critical. Targets in supporting emerging farmers proved unrealistic in 2008-09, as just under half of the 80 000 targeted were actually supported. Despite the encouraging things you have said, hon Minister, with a 10% drop in the budget, allocations for post-settlement support will need more than ever to be used effectively and efficiently.
The drastically increased budget for consultancies and professional services raises some concerns. However, the ACDP acknowledges that farmers are going to need professional assistance to ensure sustainability.
With the present economic downturn the ACDP is particularly concerned that agricultural starter packs for household vegetable gardens must not be cut back as rising food prices threaten food security.
Job creation - another national priority - underlines the importance of not undervaluing the role of agriculture in our economy. The number of jobs per unit of investment is higher in agriculture than in any other sector, and supports 8,5 million people.
Despite promises made in the Maputo Declaration in 2003 to increase the allocation in the national Budget for agriculture to 10% within five years, agriculture comprises less than 1% of our national Budget. Globally, there is a lack of disaster preparedness and experts say that South Africa is no more prepared than other nations.
The ACDP will support this budget, although it does appear inadequate to meet the huge demands on the Department of Agriculture. I thank you.