TLU SA Congress looks at new approach for agriculture

9 September 2020. Agriculture in South Africa, as well as the world, is on the verge of a new approach. That was the main message and theme of the annual congress of TLU SA. Because of the lockdown, the congress was hosted virtually for the first time this year and regions and affiliations could attend via Zoom.

The exiting president, Mr Louis Meintjes, called on farmers to become more involved to ensure the existence of agriculture in the future. “I think the critical question is: ‘Will you take part or will you stay behind? Are you changing or stagnating? Will you be more profitable or bankrupt?’”

Prof Andrè Duvenhage, the research director of social transformation at the Northwest University, confirmed this train of thought.

“The situation will most probably only become worse going forward,” he said. “The farming community is dependent on themself and self-help, and self-management looks like the best solution.”

He warned that the amendment of Article 25 relating to land expropriation without compensation would go ahead and groups like the BLF and EFF will take matters into their own hands to cause widespread anarchy.

“It is now the time to stand with each other and support each other,” he says. “Build bridges to each other as agricultural organisations. Build bridges to each other as farmers.”

“It is also the time to come up with alternative plans. It is the challenge of the new leadership of TLU SA to adjust to the changing circumstances to stay relevant in fundamental issues and to further the interests of farmers in all fields of life.”

During the congress, Mr Henry Geldenhuys (previous deputy-president) was elected as the new president of TLU SA. “It is an honour and highlight for me, but TLU SA is the priority,” he says. “Together, we will take TLU SA to new heights.”

The congress elected Mr Wannie Scribante (previous manager of the Central region) as the new deputy president.

Issued by:                  TLU SA
Date:                           9 September 2020
Enquiries:                  Mr Henry Geldenhuys, President TLUSA, Cell.: 083 560 1273
                                       Mr Bennie van Zyl, General Manager TLU SA, Cell.: 082 466 4470