Senwes boosts Drought Disaster Fund with R1m donation

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Senwes has now handed over management of the fund to Agri SA completely and has in fact become a major donor with a contribution of R1m to the fund.

Christo van der Rheede, Agri SA's deputy executive director, will take overall responsibility for the fund which includes the disbursing of funds as well as fodder to farmers in need. Producers in need are asked to contact their nearest farmer union or Agri SA office to apply for assistance.

The fund, which was launched eight weeks ago, now stands at R1,878,353.78 and counting. The majority of donations were made by ordinary South Africans via thousands of sms contributions. However, several significant contributions made by companies like Beefmaster, Voermol, Sanlam, Monsanto, Grainovation, Overberg Agri and FNB. Spoornet and other transport companies have also indicated that they are willing to ferry fodder in support of the Drought Disaster Fund.

Main concern

"As the home of the South African farmer, Agri SA's main concern is to ensure food security so that the nation's citizens will not go hungry. The effects of this devastating drought will be felt for years to come, and all corporate entities, not just the agri-sector needs to be involved in this project," says Omri van Zyl, Agri SA's executive director.

"I want to thank the companies who made significant contributions, but more especially I want to thank the ordinary man in the street who sent through thousands upon thousands of rands via smaller individual donations," said Senwes Group CEO, Francois Strydom.

In another development, seed company Montsanto has announced that they have earmarked a significant amount of seed for new farmers who are suffering from the effects of the drought.

"While there have been sporadic bouts of rain over the last few weeks, a lot more is needed to have a significant impact in grain yields and livestock numbers. We live in hope that our prayers will be answered soon," said Van Zyl.