Sugarcane industry contributes to economic growth on South Coast
The highlight of a recent dialogue was the discussion of the Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan.
Sugarcane growers from the South Coast gathered for an informative stakeholder dialogue in Umzinto on September 18.
The Grower Imbizo was hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Department of Agriculture in partnership with the South African Sugar Association.
Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, said the South African government recognises the critical role that sugarcane growers play in the value chain of the sugar industry in the country.
“Sugarcane growers are an important component of the sugar value chain, and a critical stakeholder that government should always take along in the implementation of the Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan to 2030,” he said.
“The Master Plan is a signed partnership agreement, with representation from the two grower associations, namely the South African Farmers’ Development Association and the South African Cane Growers’ Association. We used the dialogue to provide them with an update on the implementation of the Master Plan, as well as engage them on the key challenges currently facing the industry, with a view to finding long-lasting solutions.”
The Master Plan was developed to address several challenges faced by the industry to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Phase Two of the Master Plan, which was adopted by all stakeholders in April this year, aims to shift the sugar sector from recovery to long-term sustainability through product diversification.
The dialogue also focused on supporting growers and unlocking opportunities for investment, job creation, food security and local economic development.
Umdoni’s mayor, Mbali Cele-Luthuli, welcomed the engagement, highlighting the vital role of sugarcane farming in the South Coast economy.
“For Umdoni, sugarcane farming is more than agriculture; it is a source of livelihoods, employment and economic activity,” she said.
“We must work together to unlock the full potential of this sector and ensure that its benefits reach our communities.”
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