Land matters : 2008 (2)

Abstract

Apparently, the State possesses approximately four million properties that are unknown to the Departments that must deal with these specific pieces of land or buildings. Local governments, especially, are not aware of all their properties and therefore fail to utilise them to generate income for the municipality. (See in this regard De Lange ‘Staat besit derduisende stukke eiendom waarvan hy nie weet’ Beeld Sake24 (2008-05-20) 1.) In a presentation at a Conference on the challenges of land and agrarian reform in South Africa, held in Pretoria on 2008-08-26, the Director-General of the Department of Land Affairs indicated that these challenges are experienced by both first economy and second economy farmers with regard to the supply side, demand side and the business environment. The Director-General indicated that the current challenges facing land reform are being addressed various initiatives, including strategic partnerships; increased capacity through the new structures; improved performance management and continued engagement with National Treasury. He emphasised the need for a successful partnership consisting of the following key elements: recognition, commitment, support, positive attitude, respect, acceptance and trust. An invitation was issued to various stakeholders to join government by becoming strategic partners.