The last two days a farm workers in Indaba was held at Elsenburg at Stellenbosch and during the indaba a platform was established for a partnership between employer and employee in agriculture.

This first inclusive open discussion between all role-players in agriculture in the Western Cape was described by attendees as a real effort by the Department of Agriculture to create a true Home for All in agriculture.

The Indaba called "Farm workers in dialogue" will now be followed by a meeting on 2 September 2004 during which the problems and challenges identified in the 9 discussion groups over these two days will be evaluated. This will be followed by 5 regional indabas to take the process to grassroots level.

The necessity of a seamless government was clearly identified as issues concerning rural education, economic empowerment, safety and security social services, housing and health were identified as key components in the lives of farm workers.

I am extremely proud that all role-players in agriculture participated in the Indaba. This demonstrated a willingness to enter into a partnership which will forever change the lives of farm workers, for the better. I am committed to continue with this process till its final conclusion. Farm workers will remain my personal priority for the foreseeable future.

Enquiries: Alie van Jaarsveld
Cell: 084 6046701