Out of the darkness, comes light. In the aftermath of the tragic loss of the Rafferty’s, Deputy President David Mabuza has voiced his shock and dismay, following this brutal attack. Evidently, their devastating demise now a catalyst in Government changing their approach on the other pandemic plaguing South Africa. Farm attacks.
In light of his speech, It would appear the South African Government is finally acknowledging that something drastic needs to be done about this never-ending and unaddressed, national issue.
Read more: Normandien farm attack leaves two dead, when will the violence against farmers end?
The Rafferty’s shocking and brutal murder follows the horrific murder of Zakiyya Ahmedjan Ismail. Who was wailfully four months pregnant and the mother of two children, aged 4 and 8, who was viciously killed during a farm attack in Weenen, Ladysmith.
Condemning violent attacks on farmers and people within rural farming communities, Mabuza stresses that one cannot ignore the importance the agricultural sector has on South Africa’s economy.
Therefore, he is now calling on all South Africans to start valuing farmers and farm workers. He has also emphasised the importance of being relentless in the pursuit of a better country, where people can live with dignity and be at peace with one another.
He goes on to say, “This is what defines who we are as a nation and should be the guiding light within our communities. Even in difficult times, our prevailing challenges must not lead us to despair and to engage in all that is against our humanity as a people. We must remain resolute in building a better South Africa that values human life,”
As South Africa and the world applaud the words of the Deputy President, we are excited to see these long-awaited words transform into tangible results.
On Friday, September 4, the Deputy President will convene the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Committee. Amongst other things, the meeting will focus on specific programmes at curbing the violent attacks on farmers, which have major negative implications on food production and security.
“The lives of farmers, farmworkers and farm dwellers, as well as every citizen of the country, black and white, matters. It is for this reason that Government will continue to work with the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster to ensure prevention as a priority in dealing with farm murders,” Mabuza added.
Building on this, he is further calling on the police to conduct thorough investigations, bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to book, thereby ensuring justice is served for the victims.
With the Deputy President highlighting the importance of farmers and farmworkers, condemning violent attacks, will something eventually be done to curb the atrocious violence? What steps do you feel need to be taken to stop the brutal and unnecessary attacks? Do you think the Government is capable of stopping farm attacks?
Share your thoughts and views with us in the comment section below.
Authors: Quinton Boucher and Calvin Swemmer
Edited: Calvin Swemmer
