Bumper harvest forecast, but farmers count losses

Ministry of Agricultural Development and Food Security permanent secretary, Boipelelo Khumomatlhare told Mmegi following a presentation to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) yesterday that despite the natural disasters, a bumper harvest is anticipated from most crops, except maize.

He said cereals such as sorghum and millet, cowpeas and other crops are expected to have high yields, while maize will be low. South Africa is expecting its highest cereal production in 40 years, while other neighbouring countries are equally expecting strong harvests.