Hoopstad, Free State – The African Farmers Association of South Africa (AFASA) in the Free State has raised concerns over the persistent challenges black farmers face in accessing land, while white commercial farmers retain control over vast portions of arable land. The organization argues that this imbalance perpetuates historic inequalities and stifles the growth of emerging black farmers.
The issue has come to the forefront following a land dispute in Hoopstad, where an emerging black farmer was locked out of a farm owned by the Department of Water and Sanitation, despite his livestock still being on the property. The farmer sought an interim court order to regain access while awaiting clarity on his lease application.
AFASA highlighted that many black farmers are restricted to small plots on municipal commonage, often limited to just 10 cows — a constraint that severely hampers business growth. “The biggest problem we face as black farmers is access to land,” said a representative. “Government owns vast tracts, but much of it remains in the hands of a few commercial farmers who don’t need it.”
In Hoopstad, reports indicate that around 4,000 hectares are controlled by just seven commercial farmers, leaving little room for emerging black farmers to expand.
The Department of Water and Sanitation stated that it is evaluating lease applications from farmers in Hoopstad, emphasizing that land allocation follows government policies. However, young farmers in the area allege exclusion from the process, with some accusing officials of deliberate obstruction.
“We are perpetually excluded from acquiring municipal land,” said one farmer. “Most land belongs to white farmers, and there’s no funding or support for us.”
The dispute has now moved to the courts, with one farmer, David Vanheerden, claiming legal permission to occupy the contested land. The case has been postponed to July 30 at the Hoopstad Magistrate’s Court.
AFASA’s Commodity Chair, Real Bet, lamented the slow pace of land reform, citing unresponsive officials and bureaucratic delays. “We’ve engaged at all levels, but it’s like speaking to a brick wall,” Bet said. While praising Free State MEC Elsabe Rockman for her efforts, he called on national authorities to address the systemic barriers preventing fair land distribution.
The struggle for land reform in South Africa remains deeply tied to the legacy of apartheid-era dispossession. AFASA insists that without urgent intervention, black farmers will continue to face exclusion, perpetuating economic disparities.
As the legal battle unfolds, the Hoopstad case serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved land question — and the urgent need for equitable solutions.
Read more on South Africa Today
