Thank You Letter to RSA farmers during COVID-19 Lockdown

Dear Farmers

The world has entered a unique period in its history, and none of us have a rulebook to follow. No matter who you are or where you live, the ramifications of what’s happening currently will continue to be felt for a very long time.

But that’s for later. Right now everyone is battling to cope with immediate circumstances, and anxiety levels are extremely high. People are afraid for their health and the danger posed by COVID-19, and they are just as worried about whether they will be able to continue to access food and vital supplies today, and tomorrow.

Within this ever changing and worrying scenario, what you and your employees are doing right now, on your farms is making a massive difference to everyone in the country; from individual citizens to families to all of us here at RSA Group.

You have answered President Ramaphosa’s call to national action. You have also ensured that our Agriculture Minister’s vision of a food value chain being able to deliver enough safe and nutritious food to all South Africans during lockdown is a reality.

I’d like to thank you for the huge effort you’re putting in, to make sure South Africans continue to have access to vital fresh produce during this time of crisis.

I thank you on behalf of our company – because you’re the heart of the RSA Group business – and also on behalf of every South African. Without your effort our people wouldn’t be nearly as strong as they currently are.

I’d also like to assure you that everyone at RSA Group is working 24/7 to make sure we keep the markets – including export channels and direct sales to retail distribution centres – running smoothly and efficiently, so that your efforts are supported and your businesses have every opportunity to stay active and sustainable in the midst of the uncertainty.

In summary: we are extremely grateful for your incredible efforts, and we’re working hard to match you every step of the way!

Best wishes

Jaco Oosthuizen