In a fast-paced world where urban life often disconnects us from the roots of our existence, it’s easy to take for granted the land that feeds, clothes, and sustains us. Yet, South Africa’s agricultural land, often overlooked, is undeniably one of the nation’s most precious resources. As President Cyril Ramaphosa recently assented to the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Bill in January this year, this pivotal moment reminds us of the urgent need to appreciate and protect the land that nourishes us all.
Agricultural land plays a central role in our everyday lives, even though we may not always see it. The primary agricultural sector contributes around 3% to South Africa’s GDP and accounts for about 7% of formal employment. It feeds us, employs us, stimulates economic growth, and fosters rural development. Yet, many of us — especially those of us living in cities — often lose sight of this reality. We walk into supermarkets, buy our groceries, and prepare our meals without a second thought about the soil, water, and human effort behind every bite. Without agricultural land, and without a collective understanding of its significance, our most basic needs would be at risk.
The latest South African Food Security Index revealed that food security is at its lowest point in over a decade. This stark reminder underscores the critical link between preserving agricultural land and ensuring that all South Africans have reliable access to food. Moreover, the agricultural sector is a major driver of trade, with total agricultural exports reaching a record-breaking US$13.2 billion in 2023. Protecting the non-renewable resource that makes this possible is not just a matter of economics — it’s about safeguarding our future.
According to the World Bank, agricultural land makes up 79.4% of South African territory. The Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Bill is designed to ensure that this land remains viable and productive. Under the Bill, certain actions, such as subdividing agricultural land or registering a lease over a portion of it, require ministerial consent. This safeguard prevents farmland from being broken into economically unviable parcels, preserving its primary purpose of supporting agricultural productivity.
Collaboration will safeguard South Africa’s agricultural future
Beyond its legal mechanisms, the Bill highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in safeguarding agricultural land. While individuals and entities may own portions of agricultural land, the government’s involvement is crucial to ensuring its preservation. At the same time, the private sector plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the government does not overextend its authority, helping to maintain a balance where regulations protect agricultural land without stifling innovation or economic activity. By holding the government accountable, private stakeholders help create a framework of mutual responsibility and trust, reinforcing the resilience of the agricultural sector.
This collaborative approach recognises that agricultural land is not just a private commodity but a public good. When public and private stakeholders work together, the shared responsibility helps keep agricultural preservation top of mind and ensures that the goals set for South Africa’s food security and economic sustainability are met. We’ve learned through experience that we cannot always rely solely on the government, but through well-executed partnerships, we can achieve far more.
Regulatory clarity key to long-term agricultural viability
The Bill also introduces offenses and penalties, providing safeguards that encourage compliance and reinforce the seriousness of agricultural land preservation. Yet, as with any legislative framework, its true success will depend on its implementation. The accompanying regulations — which clarify how the Bill’s provisions should be applied in practice — are essential in turning legal principles into effective action. These regulations help flesh out the technical details, such as how to assess whether a property qualifies as high-value agricultural land, ensuring transparency and accountability.
By setting clear standards and processes, these regulations will create a stable environment for farmers and investors, reducing uncertainty and fostering long-term agricultural planning. Moreover, they provide mechanisms for regular monitoring and evaluation, ensuring that the spirit of the Bill is upheld and adapted as needed to meet changing environmental and economic conditions. This regulatory clarity not only protects the land but also empowers those who work it, offering them the confidence to invest in sustainable practices that will benefit South Africa for generations to come.
Land and identity: A deeper connection for South Africans
Land is not just a physical space — it carries stories, memories, and aspirations. In South Africa, where the history of land is intimately tied to struggles of dispossession and reclamation, the conversation around agricultural preservation takes on a unique and emotional significance. Our connection to the land is woven into our national identity, reflecting both our painful past and our hopes for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Perhaps this is why the conversation around land can be so deeply personal for South Africans. Land has always been a sensitive and significant issue, touching on economic freedom, cultural identity, and social justice. Whether we own property or not, the importance of land affects us all. The Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land Bill offers an opportunity to shift our perspective, to honour the land that sustains us, and to take collective responsibility for its protection. In doing so, we not only preserve our agricultural heritage but also build a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable future for generations to come.