By Wandile Sihlobo and Johann Kirsten
The agricultural sector now enjoys universal recognition. Its status as a growth propeller is embraced in ways that transcend sectoral interests.
Specifically, the country’s political leadership deeply appreciates agriculture’s importance in driving the rural economy. They also recognise its role in addressing poverty and creating job opportunities.
The uncomfortable truth about the sector
Much has also been written about the sector’s untapped opportunities for unlocking economic growth. Additionally, many writings highlight agriculture’s potential for addressing racial inequities in its ownership.
The attempt in this book is to move the conversation even further. It seeks to provide a more concrete view of how to unlock South Africa’s agricultural potential fully.
The Uncomfortable Truth about South Africa’s Agriculture specifically highlights some uncomfortable truths about South Africa’s agriculture. It focuses on several key principles. It also highlights important policies and economic realities. This is done in the hope that everyone will now share the same level of understanding of the sector’s specific needs.
Furthermore, the book aims to clarify necessary interventions in agriculture. While the contents may be uncomfortable for some, the book intends to ignite an urgent call for decisive policy implementation. It also demands stronger collaboration among social partners.
About the authors
Wandile Sihlobo is the Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz). He is also the author of two books. The first is A Country of Two Agricultures – The Disparities, the Challenges, the Solutions (Tracey McDonald Publishers, 2023). The second is Finding Common Ground: Land, Equity & Agriculture (Picador Africa, 2020).
In 2019, Wandile was appointed to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Presidential Economic Advisory Council. He was re-appointed in 2022. He previously served on the Presidential Expert Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture from 2018.
Prof Johann Kirsten started his career after completing his BSc Agric Hons in Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University. He began as an agricultural economist in the South African government. There, he quickly learned about agricultural economics in practice. During that period, he completed his MSc Agric at the University of Pretoria. He also published several papers from his thesis.
From 2006-2009, he also served as vice president of the International Association of Agricultural Economists. Johann’s research focus has always been on agricultural policy matters. At first, he concentrated on agricultural development policy. Later, his focus shifted to land reform policy.
- PUBLISHER | Tracey McDonald Publishers |
- ISBN | 978-1-0672289-0-3 |
- Recommended Retail Price | R290.00 |
- Classification | Agriculture |
For more information | Janine Daniel | +27 (0)83 327 3393 | mail me |
