Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism
In the light of the recent protest by farm workers and women living on farms, represented by the Women on Farms Project, calling for accelerated land redistribution and access to dignified housing:
- (1) The National Department of Land Reform and Rural Development (DLRRD) is responsible for ensuring proper implementation of the Extension of Security of Tenure Act (ESTA), which protects agri workers and their families in relation to tenure security. While the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) is not responsible for tenure security, it plays a supportive role by addressing socio‑economic conditions that affect tenure security. The Department assesses eviction/ housing related complaints received from various stakeholders and refers these cases to DLRRD for legal compliance and to Legal Aid South Africa for representation. In addition, the WCDoA provide support through the following measures:
- Workshops on labour rights and tenure security;
- Information sessions for farm owners, HR officials, and agri workers in partnership with Legal Aid and DLRRD;
- DLRRD led tenure awareness activities.
These initiatives help ensure compliance with ESTA and provide support for vulnerable groups, including long-term residents, the elderly, children, and persons with disabilities.
The Department also supports the DLRRD to conduct farm assessments where land is identified by DLRRD for prospective producers. Post the acquisition and the occupation of the land, the Department assists these producers with post-settlement support including extension and advisory services.
(2) The Department engage through the participation in the MINTECH structures, and are currently exploring an MOU between the Departments to strengthen collaboration.
