R3-billion needed in agriculture sector as drought persists: Agri SA
A drought survey released by Agri SA has revealed the agricultural industry is in a dire situation.
According to the survey - the sector has shed over 30 000 jobs since January last year.
Agri SA Executive Director Omri van Zyl says the sector needs at least R3 billion in financial assistance from government to act as a buffer.
"We see this drought - again - as a national emergency. It's going to have a direct impact on consumer prices, it's going to have an impact on food affordability, it has an impact on the farmers on the land," Van Zyl said.
The drought survey has also revealed that:
*31 000 jobs have been shed by the agricultural industry while R7 billion has been lost since January 2018.
*70% of respondents struggle financially
*Over 50% reported the need to retrench farm workers and
*An increased risk of veld fires due to the arid conditions pastures
