Aucamp warns fuel costs, El Niño to hit farmers and consumers
Aucamp says steep fuel hikes will affect farmers and lead to an increase in food prices.
Minister of Agriculture Willie Aucamp has cautioned that rising fuel costs and the approaching El Nino weather conditions will significantly impact both farmers and consumers. During the World Food Day commemoration in North West, Aucamp highlighted the challenges faced by the region, which was chosen as the host due to its food security issues. The event aimed to raise awareness on food and nutrition security, emphasizing the plight of households struggling with poverty and food scarcity.
Aucamp pointed out that escalating fuel prices would drive up food prices, as everything requires transportation which relies on diesel and trucks. Additionally, farmers are facing the uncertainty of El Nino, which is expected to bring a hot and dry summer. This would further complicate the farmers' situation, as they face fuel increases, higher fertilizer costs, and the unpredictability of rainfall.
The Food and Nutrition Security Survey report revealed that 73% of households in North West are food insecure. To support vulnerable households, the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, announced the distribution of food parcels to several impoverished elderly-headed families. Sambatha also called for more interventions to alleviate the struggles of consumers facing food access challenges.
He suggested the possibility of consistent zero-rating on VAT for a specific food basket to prevent people from having to choose between purchasing essential food items and paying taxes.
The government also donated equipment to emerging farmers, demonstrating their commitment to supporting the agricultural sector in dealing with these multifaceted challenges.
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