By Neelam Rahim

The General Manager of Mpumalanga Agriculture has written an opinion piece on the recent court case between AfriForum and the EFF. While some will see this as a licence to voice sentiments around ‘killing’ and ‘burning’, it is essential in a constitutional state to respect the judgments of the courts. Mpumalanga Agriculture CEO Robert Davel emphasised in his opinion piece that farmers are making it work under challenging circumstances.

Joined in discussion with Radio Islam International, Robert Davel said the value of farmers or agricultural producers needs to be respected.

The perceptions that need to be broken for this to be achieved include that South Africans assume that most or almost all farmers are white, whereas many black farmers are also the victims of farm attacks.

According to Robert, the threat to life and property that confronts farmers is a danger to black and white farmers.

He said this problem needs to be addressed, and an understanding in public surrounding the challenges of farming, including the commitment by farmers, needs to be highlighted.

There are cases where farmers decide to instead relocate to other countries. But most farmers in South Africa are committed and here to stay.

Robert said it’s essential for all role players to understand that if you care about South Africa, you must care about its farming and farmers.

He added that no other industry is mandated to take responsibility for the employees of farmers.

Robert tells Radio Islam that inevitable conflicts exist in any industry. But these should be dealt with on the merits of individual cases and must not be generalised, which is often happening.

He stated that poor behaviour from farmers is not condoned. They stand firm within the law’s reasons, and much of the commercial excess to market depends on ethical standards.

Listen to the interview on Radio Islam’s podcast below.