Broad Based AgriBEE Steering Committee met in Pretoria
The Broad Based AgriBEE Steering Committee met yesterday at the Department of Agriculture (DoA) in Pretoria.
The convenors of the two task teams on the primary (production) and secondary (input suppliers, processing and retail) sectors gave their reports on the consultation process. The task team on primary sector is led by Mr Bully Botma of Grain SA and Ms Dawn Marole (private individual with relevant experience) while the secondary sector task team is led by Mr Johan Dique of the Agricultural Business Chamber and Adv Brenda Madumise (individual with relevant experience). The Steering Committee noted the good progress on consultations from the task teams, and the plans for provincial level contact in November.
The Steering Committee also noted with concern the letter by Transvaal Agricultural Union (TAU) whereby the union indicated its intention to suspend its participation in the Steering Committee. However the committee emphasised the need to continue engaging with TAU as the union is a crucial role player.
The Steering Committee reiterated the call to members of the public to submit their comments on the AgriBEE framework document which was launched in the Eastern Cape on 26 July 2004. They reconfirmed that the consultation process will end on 20 December 2004.
As part of the Steering Committee, Agri SA, National African Farmers Union (NAFU) and Farm Workers Union (FAWU), also pledged that they would facilitate consultation with all their district offices countrywide.
All AgriBEE related documents are available on the departmental website, www.nda.agric.za, or can be obtained from telephone number 012- 319 7141. The comments can be sent to The Senior Manager: Business and Entrepreneurial Development, Department of Agriculture, Private Bag X250, Pretoria 0001. Members of the public can also hand their comments in at the Maize Board Building, Office No 609, corner of Beatrix and Belvedere Streets, Arcadia, Pretoria.
Enquiries: Steve Galane 083 635 7346