JOHANNESBURG - "They discussed matters of common concern and agreed to work together to solve problems affecting workers, farmers, consumers and the country as a whole," the two organisations said in a joint statement.

They said issues up for discussion included the cost of food and food security, development of agriculture, land policy, farm schools and transport for children, education for farm workers, health care, farm murders, labour issues, job losses and transformation, and the Protection of State Information Bill.

"Agreement was reached that representatives from both organisations will take these matters further and make proposals to the respective principals on the prioritisation of these issues," said the organisations.