MEC METH INSPECTS WILLOW TREE CITRUS FARM’S COMPLIANCE WITH COVID-19 REGULATIONS
With the agricultural sector declared as an essential service, the MEC for Rural Development and Agrarian Reform has taken a drive to visit commercial farms as well as smallscale farmer’s adherence and compliance to the COVID-19 regulations.
With regulations outlined and published in the amendment to the Disaster Management Act of 2002 that have been put in place as the South African government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, farms are required to comply whilst food production for food security is less affected. These regulations apply to the ways in which farms are expected to operate during the country’s lockdown period.
MEC was happy with the reports from workers confirming compliance by their employers. The report given by workers included the manner in which farm workers were transported and the precautions taken to ensure their health and safety during COVID-19.
MEC Meth said, “The manner in which this farm complies with COVID 19 regulations is impressive. They have appreciated the contribution of masks and sanitizers we have brought as addition from the department”
MEC’s donating PPE supplies to farm workers to help combat the spread of the virus.
The MEC further joined workers as they were busy with fruit picking (harvesting).
During the visit, Meth explained COVID-19 and how farm workers could protect themselves against the virus , reduce chances of contracting and spreading it.