Is there enough support for black farmers in South Africa, or even those just starting out their own farms? Just last week, the Department of Land Reform and Agriculture announced that advertisements for 896 empty state farms in all provinces except the Western Cape and Gauteng will be sent out. Speaking on the issue of the release of state-owned land, Minister for Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza said that more support would be given to farmers as well. The extent of the support was entirely detailed. Minister Didiza explained that once a beneficiary’s application has been approved, they would need to sign a lease agreement. The agreement between the beneficiary and the state would legally bind them in a contractual agreement, and would not be transferable under any circumstances. Is the release of more land the answer to seeing agriculture boost again? To take this discussion further, we welcome the President of the Black Farmers Association of SA, Dr Lennox Xolile Mtshagi… Image: The Guardian