Colletta Dube
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
SUGAR cane growers along South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal north coast are grappling with a severe labour shortage after many foreign national workers reportedly fled farming communities following protests against undocumented migrants.
The exodus has sparked fears of disruptions to harvesting and other critical farming operations, with producers warning that delays could negatively affect productivity and the broader agricultural value chain.
Speaking to SABC News on Tuesday, African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA) KwaZulu-Natal deputy chairperson Mr Lloyd Hadebe said the departure of experienced farm workers has left many growers struggling to secure enough labour.
“Most of the farmers, including communal ones, the situation is very dire. Our members are telling us that their workers are living in fear of police raids as they are undocumented and the impact of their departure will be huge,” said Mr Hadebe.
He said the shortage was being felt across both commercial and communal farming areas, where producers depend on seasonal labour to carry out time-sensitive operations such as harvesting and field maintenance.
Mr Hadebe acknowledged the need to prioritise employment opportunities for local communities but stressed that the transition should be carefully managed to avoid crippling the agricultural sector.
“We need a balanced approach that ensures farms have access to adequate labour while remaining compliant with immigration and labour laws,” he said.
He urged the South African Government and all relevant stakeholders to engage farming communities urgently to find practical solutions that protect agricultural production while addressing concerns over undocumented migration.
The labour shortage comes at a critical stage of the sugar cane season, with industry players warning that prolonged disruptions could affect harvest schedules, reduce yields and place additional financial pressure on growers already battling rising production costs.
Online Reporter