Land reform in South Africa is not just a policy; it’s essential for genuine transformation. Land ownership affects economic empowerment, identity, and social progress—making it a key factor in addressing the inequalities created by apartheid. Today, around 72% of privately owned land is held by white individuals, while Black South Africans, who make up the majority of the population, own only 4%. Additionally, men control 72% of privately held land, with women owning just 13%. These stark imbalances highlight the urgent need for a land reform policy that fosters inclusivity, equality, and economic opportunity for all South Africans.
In the past five years, the government has taken notable steps towards change. Deputy President Paul Mashatile shared in Parliament that the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Land Reform and Agriculture, through various departments and agencies, has redistributed 305,990 hectares. This includes 127,525 hectares allocated to women, 111,071 hectares to young people, and 2,781 hectares to people with disabilities. These numbers go beyond statistics—they’re concrete steps toward restoring dignity, opportunity, and ownership to communities historically denied land.
The Deputy President also noted that 2.3 million South Africans have benefited directly from land restitution, with R25 billion dedicated to restoring 3,972,331 hectares. Additionally, the government has paid out R22.5 billion in financial compensation to those who chose monetary reparation over land.
Responding to questions in Parliament, Mashatile addressed whether he would support amending Section 25 of the Constitution to allow for expropriation without compensation. He explained that while this issue has been debated extensively, the National Assembly could not pass the proposed amendment due to lack of a two-thirds majority. Meanwhile, the Expropriation Bill, which outlines provisions for land expropriation with “just and equitable” compensation, awaits Presidential assent.
Once enacted, this Bill will provide the government with a stronger framework for advancing land reform and land restitution. As Mashatile affirmed, the commitment to land reform is unwavering. This is not just about policy—it’s about reshaping South Africa’s future, one hectare at a time, to build a country that includes and uplifts all of its people.