I’ve always believed that the future of South Africa’s sugar industry lies in the hands of our black small-scale farmers. With over 24,000 of them playing a vital role in this multi-billion-rand sector, their sustainability isn’t just important—it’s essential.
That’s exactly why Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen met with small-scale growers and industry leaders at KwaShukela in Mount Edgecombe, Durban. His message was clear: the government is committed to ensuring that black sugarcane farmers remain a key part of the industry’s future.
“The sustainability of small-scale sugarcane farmers must remain a top priority for both government and the industry. I’m passionate about seeing these farmers grow and succeed. You are part of our agricultural family, and we see you as crucial stakeholders,” said Steenhuisen.
Empowering Black Farmers
At the meeting, the South African Sugar Association (SASA) led discussions alongside the South African Farmers Development Association, SA Canegrowers, and the South African Sugar Millers’ Association.
SASA has been at the forefront of efforts to support small-scale growers (SSGs). Recognising the challenges they face, the industry introduced a billion-rand empowerment plan. Since the 2019/2020 season, an average of 13,349 SSGs per season have benefited from the Transformation Intervention Fund.
To date, SASA has invested R1.09 billion into empowerment initiatives, with R700.55 million (64.27%) directly benefiting SSGs. Black large-scale growers received R254.47 million (25.22%), and a further R137.88 million (12.64%) went towards other black farming initiatives.
This season alone, an additional R238.9 million has been set aside to support SSGs and black growers. The funding falls into two main categories: cane delivery-based and non-delivery-based interventions.
For farmers actively delivering sugarcane, grant funding is available to ease operational costs. Beyond this, further support has included:
- A R46.5 million infrastructure rehabilitation project in Nkomazi, Mpumalanga, helping SSGs establish 300 hectares of cane.
- A R3.3 million rail siding initiative in Mkhuze, KwaZulu-Natal, which enables 70,000 tons of SSG cane to be transported to the Felixton Mill at a lower cost.
- A R7.6 million dummy spiller at Gledhow Sugar Mill, cutting hauler turnaround times and transport costs for SSGs.
Master Plan for Long-Term Growth
The Sugarcane Value Chain Master Plan to 2030 has been a game-changer for small-scale farmers. Through this initiative, a minimum of R60 million was allocated to SSGs as part of the Premium Price Payment (PPP) scheme over three seasons (2021/2022 to 2023/2024).
With the 2023/2024 season marking the final year of the PPP, SASA Council has approved an extension for 2024/2025, adjusting for inflation. This means SSGs will receive R71.08 million this season, providing continued financial support.
But sustainability isn’t just about funding—it’s about tackling the real challenges these farmers face. Over 2,500 growers have participated in surveys identifying key barriers, such as access to land and capital. The reality is that many individual small-scale growers struggle to expand their land holdings due to their rural locations and lack of economies of scale. SASA is working hard to bridge these gaps through grants and logistical support.
Looking ahead, the industry is gearing up for Phase Two of the Master Plan, focused on improving the livelihoods of SSGs across South Africa. While Phase One officially ended on 31 March 2023, this next phase is set to build on past successes and drive long-term change.
The Road Ahead
The message is clear: small-scale sugarcane farmers are not just part of the industry—they are its future. As a country, we must continue to support them, ensuring they thrive and remain sustainable in the years ahead.
It’s time to stand behind our black farmers and make sure they get the opportunities they deserve. The sugar industry is a cornerstone of our rural economies, and with the right support, these farmers will drive it forward for generations to come.