There is a huge future for agriculture in SA not only through its contribution to the economy, but also through social and rural upliftment, according to Carl Opperman, CEO of Agri Wes Cape. Opperman said at the recent launch of a new SAME tractor dealership, KMC Agri Solutions in the Western Cape, that many people are totally unaware of their dependence on agriculture. Labour unions can continue to drive for cheap food imports, but they will have to consider how this will affect employment. Primary and secondary agriculture is one of the largest generators of income in the Western Cape and without this industry many people would lose their jobs. In addition to numerous benefits – such as free transport and housing – that are unheard of in many other industries, the province currently also provides its employees with the highest wages in SA.
Opperman also called on government to become more supportive of the industry. “By implementing strategies to protect and enhance the competitiveness of agriculture, government will help to optimise farm earnings and in effect empower farmers to pay higher wages to their employees,” he said. Opperman foresees that an increasing number of farmers will pull together to share farm implements and reduce input costs in the future. “Many producers are switching to mechanisation due to stringent labour laws and the strained economic environment in the industry,” he said. Kevin Cramer, the owner of KMC Agri Solutions, hopes that his company will play a leading role in providing the industry with solutions to reduce labour and optimise production. – Glenneis Erasmus
