Crisis funding for farmers

Despite food production being deemed an essential service, many farming businesses have been negatively affected by measures aimed at curbing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

According to Omri van Zyl, executive director of Agri SA, commodities associated with wine, beer, liquor, game ranching and fibre production were in full or partial lockdown, and producers were also unable to cash in on tourism opportunities, which for many has become an important income stream.

“And, of the businesses that can operate, many are adversely affected by the closure of fresh [produce] markets, street vendors and restaurants, as well as the impact of the poor economy on demand.”

GOVERNMENT FUNDING

Government has set up various funding schemes to support struggling businesses. The majority of agricultural businesses, however, will have difficulty benefitting from these initiatives, as most prioritise the health industry, to ensure the industry is able to cope with