“Agriculture is a catalyst for economic growth, ”Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson said at the occasion of the handover of 46 000 hectares of land to the new beneficiaries of Riemvasmaak, near Kakamas in the Northern Cape .

The event marked one of the first activities towards the realisation of the Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP), a collaborative approach by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform together with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries aimed at creating vibrant rural economies.

Proving the point, an investment of R200 million by Citro Gold towards the production of citrus, pomegranate as well as figs was announced.

The Minister added that this investment would bring economic vibrancy through the establishment of the orchards, packaging and fruit processing, market activities, and the creation of 200 permanent jobs with the number increasing during peak seasons.

Addressing a crowd of more than a thousand guests, including dignitaries and beneficiaries, the Minister expressed her appreciation of this land that will be utilised for agricultural purposes and how it would improve the lives of the people. This would begin to realise the objectives of the CRDP.

The value of agricultural developed land towards the realisation of economic development and benefits could hardly be overemphasised. This has become another area for commercial farmers to fulfil their role as partners in ensuring that all of government's efforts in creating vibrant rural economies are realised.