Blog 4 Columns

South African suppliers have demonstrated that commitment and active participation in the Stronger Together programme can substantially improve responsible recruitment practices and prevent forced and bonded labour. Since the programme’s implementation in 2017, the industry has seen a remarkable 75% decrease in related findings by the end of 2024. This highlights the programme’s positive and successful role in raising awareness and creating trust in working closely with SIZA within the broader value chain.

There has been some confusion regarding their classification under labour regulations, particularly in certain packhouses and processing facilities. The key question is whether a business falls under agricultural regulations, specifically Sectoral Determination 13 (SD13), or is governed solely by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA). Understanding this distinction is crucial.

Suppliers can apply to SIZA for a bridging letter following a newly conducted audit, i.e. after the auditor’s onsite visit so that the risk of the site can be determined. This allows suppliers to continue supplying markets while they work on their corrective actions. The bridging letter serves as a temporary solution, ensuring operations can proceed smoothly while outstanding compliance measures are addressed during the peak seasonal period.

South Africa is no different as the global expectation grows to ensure ethically and environmentally sustainable value chains. In line with the value-chain due diligence requirements, all processing facilities and packhouses must comply with the businesses for which they process or pack products. The expectation is that all facilities, no matter how big or small, must have a valid social and/or environmental audit to allow for transparency and credibility of the supply chain.

As SIZA is a multi-sector agricultural solution for South African suppliers, the MySIZA platform allows for a diverse subscription base and a detailed breakdown of commodities. Over the last 10 years, the following can be mentioned according to continuous improvement and growth.

In line with legislation and environmental best practice, it’s crucial to prevent chemicals from entering non-target areas of a farm to protect the environment, public health, and biodiversity. Harmful chemicals can contaminate soil, water, and air, impacting crops and nearby ecosystems, and the effects are compounded when these chemicals enter non-target areas. Prevention is better than cure, and measures to prevent harmful chemicals from entering non-target areas will ensure continued sustainable farming practices.

Establishing environmental standards that align with South African laws is essential in the pursuit of sustainable farming practices. One notable practice that has garnered significant attention is cover cropping. This traditional agricultural technique has been utilised for centuries, originating from ancient farming methods where farmers planted specific crops during the off-season to protect and enrich the soil. Cover cropping was employed to prevent soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and maintain the health of the land between main crop cycles.

South Africa’s upcoming G20 leadership in 2025 will focus on promoting environmentally friendly farming through the Preservation and Development of Agricultural Land (PDAL) Act. At the World Economic Forum 2025, Agricultural Minister John Steenhuisen announced that the PDAL Bill had been finalised and was awaiting President Ramaphosa’s approval. The Bill was passed on January 29th, 2025, and applies to all agricultural land in South Africa.