AGRICULTURAL NEWS - Many communal farmers who produce surpluses do not have access to the right markets, or, if they do, they lack the transport to travel there.
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Other farmers are not aware of the prevailing commodity prices, which tend to fluctuate.
This can result in them selling commodities or livestock to speculators for prices that are too low.
Others, again, might be expecting prices that are too high and so are unable to sell their animals or produce.
I have heard of cases where communal farmers have obtained prices for their livestock that are 40% lower than the going market rate, and up to 60% lower for commodities such as sheep’s wool!
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The situation is exacerbated by the fact that some communities don’t have organised farmer associations that can develop strategies to address shortfalls.
