2022/23 Agriculture Budget in South Africa: Minister Didiza’s budget vote
On 12 May 2022 the South African Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, presented her annual budget vote in the Parliament. She indicated that for 2022/23, her department is allocated R17.3 billion.
Other highlights include:
- The success of SA-NL collaboration in developing an e-certification system;
- Despite COVID-19 the industry grew by 13.4% in 2020 and 8.3% in 2021;
- The Russia-Ukraine war is a threat to the country’s agri-sector since the two countries are major exporters of grain, oilseeds, fertilizers and crude oil;
- The Department is seeking to strengthen agri-industry through the Agriculture Agro-processing Master Plan which she signed on 12 May 2022;
- The need to pay attention to pest and disease outbreaks, especially in light of Foot and Mouth Disease which is currently attacking livestock in some parts of the country;
- After opening up the application of hemp permits in 2021, 31 permits have been issued; and
- R400 million has been transferred to the Industrial Development Cooperation as part blended finance for agriculture.
Detailed budget vote can be read here: MINISTER SPEECH 2022 budget vote.pdf (dalrrd.gov.za)