Land Reform Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso has stressed the importance of properly managing land ownership documents to ensure that agricultural land reform benefits communities and contributes to economic growth.
Nyhontso was speaking at the Agricultural Land Reform Symposium hosted by the Harry Gwala District Municipality on 9 March 2026 at Sani Pass Resort, under the Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Local Municipality. Addressing delegates, Nyhontso said proper management of land title deeds is critical to ensure land reaches the rightful beneficiaries. “It is important that title deeds are properly managed and issued to the rightful owners, and that the land is used productively to benefit communities and drive economic development,” he said.
The symposium brought together municipal leaders from across the district, local farmers, and stakeholders in the agricultural sector to discuss land reform and farming development in the region. Nyhontso was accompanied by Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Richard Mkhungo. Several local agricultural projects showcased their work during the event, including Goxe Agri Tourism Project (LRAD), Nozuka Farming (PLAS), Ready Agro Products (PLAS), and the Underberg Farmers Association.
Discussions during the symposium focused on the challenges faced by landowners, emerging farmers, and agricultural businesses that rely on government support to access resources, improve production, and secure land ownership documentation. The national government has set a target of ensuring that 20% of agricultural land is redistributed by 2030 as part of efforts to promote equitable land distribution and strengthen the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the event, Zamo Nxumalo, mayor of the Harry Gwala District Municipality, highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, farmers and stakeholders to ensure that land reform programmes translate into real opportunities. Nxumalo said such partnerships are crucial to building sustainable agricultural businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening food security in communities.
