Pretoria - If South Africa could bring about an end to apartheid oppression, then it is within its ability to strengthen global food security, says Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister, Tina Joemat-Pettersson.
"We can improve the quality and diversity of agricultural production. We need to develop nutrition-sensitive agricultural policies in all parts of the world. Together, we can eradicate hunger and malnutrition," Joemat-Pettersson told delegates at the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) conference in Rome on Monday.
The minister said South Africa is very optimistic that through support for partnerships such as the Comprehensive African Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), a strong contribution to agricultural development can be made.
"We need to encourage development and implementation of further programmes in agriculture and rural development that promote sustainable production.
"Better market information, access to markets, increased investment in research and technology development, and infrastructure remain our priorities," she said.
The minister said smallholder farmers must be placed at the centre of rural economies, since they represent the majority of the food insecurity in developing countries.
She further said increasing their production and access to markets would improve access and affordability of food amongst the most vulnerable.
South Africa will host the 17th Conference of Parties in Durban in December, and Joemat-Pettersson said it is vital to include agriculture, food security and land in the climate change negotiations.
