Farmers Face Catastrophic Losses in Limpopo Province
Unusually low temperatures across South Africa, plummeting to –6°C just before dawn in certain areas of the Bushveld, have led to extensive damage to vegetable fields and citrus orchards in Limpopo Province. Low-lying areas in the Limpopo River Valley have been particularly hard hit, with substantial losses reported by local farmers.
The Citrus Growers’ Association has issued a warning against packing any frozen fruit for export, as it would be of unmarketable quality upon arrival overseas.
Farmer Despair and Economic Impact
Deidré Carter, CEO of AgriLimpopo, described the situation as catastrophic: “We have been in contact with many farmers who are absolutely distraught. Potato farmers, tomato farmers, peppers, avocado, citrus, berries, macadamias, and other cash crop producers have reported significant losses due to the unprecedented cold snap, leading to fears of a substantial reduction in the availability of these essential commodities.”
The financial impact on the potato crop alone is estimated at R470 million (nearly 24 million euros), with Potatoes South Africa still assessing the full extent of the damage. FP Coetzee, Information Manager at Potatoes South Africa, indicated that around 2,840 hectares have been affected by frost, resulting in an estimated 32% loss of the crop. This represents approximately four million 10kg bags, half of the previous year’s shortfall.
Market Implications
The potential for an increased supply of smaller potatoes in the short term could pressure markets, resulting in a six-week gap in volumes. Coetzee noted that it’s still too early to determine the final damage extent, as some potatoes may yet recover. However, continued cold weather could hinder their recovery.
Individual Farmer Experiences
Tinus Venter of Janlouis Boerdery reported losing about 50% of his crops due to repeated night frosts. He remarked, “In the 24 years we’ve been on the farm, it’s definitely the coldest I’ve ever experienced it.” Venter’s farm, located north of the Soutpansberg mountain range near Botswana, endured frost over several consecutive days, an unusual occurrence.
Rising Vegetable Prices
The damage is expected to cause a significant surge in vegetable prices. “Vegetables, and particularly potatoes, will be unaffordable by the end of this month,” Venter stated. Jan Potgieter of The GROW Group echoed this sentiment, predicting that tomato prices will rise sharply in the coming weeks as the harvestable fruit diminishes.
Potgieter anticipates potato prices reaching R200 (10.2 euros) per 10kg bag, a significant increase from the current price of R60 (3 euros). He noted that tomatoes from Mpumalanga, high-lying areas behind the Soutpansberg, the Orange River in the Northern Cape, and East London in the Eastern Cape would need to supply the entire country.
Immediate and Long-Term Effects
Certain vegetable lines, such as spinach, beans, and baby marrows, will feel the cold’s impact immediately. The effects on pumpkins, tomatoes, and potatoes will become evident in a few weeks.
For further information, contact:
- Deidre Carter, AgriLimpopo: Website
- FP Coetzee, PotatoesSA: Website
- Tinus Venter, Janlouis Boerdery: Email
- Jan Potgieter, The GROW Group: Website
