Steenhuisen backs farmers who stay: ‘My focus is on those who choose South Africa'
Minister John Steenhuisen addresses concerns at Nampo 2025, saying those who left South Africa 'made a mistake' and reaffirming support for farmers committed to building the country's agricultural future.
Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen says his focus is firmly on farmers and agricultural stakeholders who have chosen to remain in South Africa, rather than those who have left the country.
Speaking at the Nampo Harvest Day 2025, Africa's largest agricultural exhibition currently underway in Bothaville, Steenhuisen addressed the controversy surrounding the recent departure of 49 South Africans to the United States, reportedly citing concerns over safety and political uncertainty.
'I think that we can't determine where people live and what their life choices are. That's for them to make. I happen to think that they've made a mistake,' said Steenhuisen in an interview with Newzroom Afrika.
He emphasised his commitment to those who continue to work within the country's agricultural sector.
'My focus as the Minister of Agriculture is on those farmers and farm workers and people in the agri-space that have chosen, like me, to stay here and make a difference.
''They're going to get my full attention and focus and support.'
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