ANC should concentrate on economic growth - Agri SA

"I also hope that we will be able to look back at the 53rd ANC Conference as a watershed one where the economic wellbeing of the agricultural sector was afforded a prominent position," he added.

"We realise that as an integral sector of the economy we also need to make a positive contribution to the problems the country are grappling with, especially employment creation, alleviation of poverty, household food insecurity and rural economic development. We also appreciate the fact that the role the agricultural sector can play in this regard is acknowledged in various government policy documents, including the National Development Plan," Möller said.

Introspection is needed

The introspection by the ANC, which the conference needs to be centered around, will have to deal with matters threatening to place the country in a downward spiral. "If aspects like corruption, poor service delivery by government and the inability to implement sound policies, also pertaining to land reform are not addressed, the conference will without doubt be an exercise in futility. The country can no longer afford a wait-and-see approach by investors," he added.

Agri SA was invited to participate in the business programme of the ANC Progressive Business Forum which will run concurrent to the conference. "We will definitely make use of the opportunity to engage with cabinet ministers and other government representatives on matters confronting our sector and the country at large," he said.

"The agricultural sector can, provided a conducive policy environment exists, most certainly contribute towards building a proud future for the country, also in relation to political imperatives viewed as of critical importance by the ANC," Möller concluded.