The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Northern Cape is calling for a second chance for farmers to resubmit applications for relief funding. This comes amidst ongoing concerns relating to the lack of support and transparency regarding the funding that was set aside for Covid-19 Disaster Relief Funding for farmers.

Both small and commercial farmers, from all corners of our vast province, have been left out in the cold following a lack of support and guidance from the department regarding the submission of applications for Covid-19 relief funding. There was particularly little to no assistance from the department on how the forms had to be completed, with no time to rectify applications.

When the application process for Covid-19 relief funding started in May, the DA had already submitted a letter, as well as parliamentary questions, to the department regarding the rollout of funding, with no response.

It is worrisome to note that our already suffering farmers have to endure zero transparency and inconsistency when decisions are taken on who will receive relief funding. The department speak about its so-called commitment to look after its key stakeholders, yet 80% of the farmers did not receive support.

The DA will again submit a letter to the newly appointed MEC, Mase Manopole, as well as the Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, requesting a list of all beneficiaries as well as the criteria that each applicant had to meet to be eligible for funding. We will also ask for the opening up of a second phase of Covid-19 support, in order to deal with applicants from the first round whose applications might not have been completed.

The DA understands that small and upcoming farmers are currently organising a march to the Premier’s Office to bring to his attention just how frustrated and hopeless the farming community has become due to the inconsistencies of the agriculture department.

Support to farmers and transparency regarding assistance, should be given top priority, especially now that the agricultural sector is under immense pressure and has to endure both the effects of Covid-19 as well as the drought.

We should never forget that farming not only remains one of the biggest economic contributors but is also responsible for feeding this nation. It is therefore necessary that all farmers receive government’s uncompromising and transparent support.

Issued by The DA