AGRICULTURAL NEWS - The Land Bank today informed the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries about the impact and response to the current drought.
The number of hectares planted this season is lower than last year and there is a decline across all commodities in the agriculture sector. The consequence of lower output in agriculture is an increase in imports and, therefore, an increase in prices.
The hardest hit provinces are the North West and Free State with dams on average at 44 and 55 percent respectively, with some standing virtually empty.
Severely affected are wheat, maize and sugar cane crops, with a low possible effect into the new season. Farmers in the disaster declared areas will be unable to plant into the new season.
The Land Bank has the responsibility of sound lending against good prospects. Both the yields and the quality of crops are likely to be low due to the lack of irrigation.
The Land Bank has the responsibility of sound lending against good prospects. Both the yields and the quality of crops are likely to be low due to the lack of irrigation.
There is a decrease in livestock due to the voluntary slaughter by farmers. Livestock farmers are feeling the pressure on profit margins.
