TLU SA supports the lockdown of 21 days announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa this evening. It is in the interest of South Africa.
“We are delighted that the president realises the critical role of the commercial farmer in ensuring food security and delivery,” says Mr Louis Meintjes, the president of TLU SA. “It is, however, important to include the entire agricultural value chain here. The farmer cannot deliver products to distribution points if spare parts and fuel is not available.”
Last week, TLU SA agreed to serve on the different departmental task groups to protect agriculture. Understandably, the announcement unleashed new issues around the day to day management, which should be addressed in depth. TLU SA will take these uncertainties to the task groups and will give feedback to members in due course.
“We will suggest to the minister that members of organised agriculture organisations receive exemption certificates to continue producing food,” he says. “TLU SA is also working on alternative plans to assist farmers in getting their products to the consumer.”
Farmers must keep their workers informed of the latest developments around the COVID-19 pandemic and to curb the spread of the disease.
