President Cyril Ramaphosa has outlined plans to transfer approximately 2.5 million hectares of state-owned agricultural land to black farmers as government moves to expand commercial farming and improve food security.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, 12 October 2026, Ramaphosa said the initiative would help address inequalities in South Africa's agricultural sector while creating opportunities for emerging farmers.

The land will be released through government's Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy, with eligible beneficiaries receiving title deeds.

Government Moves to Transfer Farmland

According to the Presidency, the state acquired approximately 2.5 million hectares of farmland over several years, with much of it previously leased to beneficiaries.

Ramaphosa explained during his June 2026 Presidency Budget Vote that short-term leases had limited farmers' ability to secure financing and invest in agricultural operations.

Government is now working to transfer ownership through title deeds.

The president said expanding access to productive land was essential for strengthening South Africa's agricultural economy.

However, land ownership alone would not guarantee successful farming businesses.

Farmers Need Funding and Training

Ramaphosa stressed that emerging farmers require affordable financing, practical training and access to modern agricultural technology.

He highlighted the Land Bank's Blended Finance Scheme, which combines government grants with loan financing to support agricultural enterprises.

During a visit to Redlands Dairy Farm in the Eastern Cape, Ramaphosa pointed to the black-owned and youth-owned business as an example of how financial assistance could support commercial farming.

The Presidency also acknowledged mentorship initiatives run by agricultural organisations, including Grain South Africa and the Citrus Growers' Association.

Ramaphosa encouraged commercial banks and agribusinesses to expand their participation in agricultural financing programmes.

Agriculture Could Create More Jobs

The president warned that relying on a limited section of the population for food production was not sustainable as South Africa's population grows.

He said broadening participation in commercial agriculture would strengthen food security and create employment opportunities.

According to BusinessTech, South Africa's agricultural sector employs approximately 944,000 people, with another 200,000 working across the broader value chain.

The publication also reported that agricultural exports reached R270 billion in 2025.

Ramaphosa maintained that expanding production would allow South Africa to meet domestic food demand while growing agricultural exports.