Parliament, Tuesday, 26 March 2024 – The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Land Reform, Environment, Mineral Resources and Energy, Ms Tebogo Modise, welcomes the passing of the Ratification of the Amended Convention on the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) today by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
The committee sought clarification on the reasons for the delay in ratifying the treaty from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD). The DALRRD explained that the delay was as a result of a thorough assessment process. This included evaluating which other countries were party to the treaty; considering the global opinion towards the treaty; assessing the benefits for South Africa; and identifying any potential shortcomings or challenges associated with the treaty.
The committee was informed that extensive consultations had taken place with various stakeholders, including commercial farmers, small-scale farmers, and subsistence farmers. The DALRRD emphasised that the voices and concerns of farmers were considered during the implementation process of the treaty.
In addition to the discussions on plant genetic resources, the committee also inquired about the existence of a similar instrument for the protection of animal genetic resources. The department clarified that currently there is no global agreement specifically focused on animal genetic resources. However, South Africa, along with other countries, is actively engaged in consultations to develop a global plan of action for securing animal genetic resources.
The committee believes that the treaty will contribute to the sustainable management and utilization of plant genetic resources, thereby ensuring food security and promoting agricultural biodiversity in South Africa.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON LAND REFORM, ENVIRONMENT, MINERAL RESOURCES AND ENERGY, MS TEBOGO MODISE
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu
Parliamentary Communication Services
Cell: 081 497 4694
E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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