In maiden speech as minister, Steenhuisen promises to modernise agri sector

CAPE TOWN - New Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen is promising to modernise the sector, including introducing a track-and-trace system for livestock. 

Despite being labeled a right-winger by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who claim that under his leadership black farmers will be excluded from meaningful participation in the sector, Steenhuisen said it was his goal to ensure that small and large-scale farmers were at the cutting edge of agricultural advancements. 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader delivered his maiden address as a minister in Parliament on Tuesday, outlining how he plans to spend his budget.

Minister Steenhuisen said that keeping better track of the movement of animals around the country would make farmers more competitive internationally. 

He added that a track-and-trace system would also improve biosecurity, which was not only affecting local production but also impacted export potential. 

"This is becoming necessary because international export markets and trade organisations are rapidly moving to systems where trade will only be possible with livestock products if such a product can be traced to its origin. We must move swiftly in this regard." 

Despite the EFF questioning his commitment to the advancement of black farmers, Steenhuisen said that he wanted to empower all new farmers to succeed. 

"To support farmers to grow and develop and contribute to food security, we need a fully-fledged database of farmers, understanding in each instance the type of support they require from the department." 

Steenhuisen said that a sectoral overhaul would also require that outdated legislation be replaced.