Farmers in Philippi Horticultural Area warn that crime threatens food production

The Philippi Horticultural Area (PHA), one of Cape Town’s most productive farming zones, is facing a surge in crime that farmers say is crippling operations and putting hundreds of jobs and small traders at risk.

Ward 43 councillor and Sub-council 17 chairperson Elton Jansen said the Western Cape Government-commissioned 2018 Indego Report, later endorsed by the City, confirmed the PHA’s economic weight. He noted that Philippi Groente Verpakkers alone “provides jobs for more than 600 people… I don’t have to tell you how many families are empowered by them alone.” The PHA also supports township informal traders, who rely on its fresh produce.

Farmers told national Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen during a  November visit that rising crime is now their biggest threat. “This area is under sieged and threatens the future of this economic hub and jobs, we need to make a concerted effort to make it safe,” Jansen said.

He warned that the policing gap leaves the PHA exposed whenever violence erupts in neighbouring Hanover Park. “Philippi SAPS also covers the gang ridden area of Hanover Park. When there are gang wars and shooting in Hanover Park the rest of the PHA which includes residential areas Schaapkraal, Highlands Estate, Knole Park, are left totally vulnerable to crime.”

Jansen is pushing for a dedicated SAPS satellite station in the area, backed by City law enforcement and Metro Police.

Mayco Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, the city deploys officers but acknowledged the PHA’s concern.

"The City also has limited resources, capacity and mandates and would support additional investment and expansion of SAPS resources, like a satellite or permanent police station to serve the needs of the PHA and surrounds, as well as additional SAPS officers and vehicles to increase visibility in the area," he said.

Farmers have also flagged rising electricity tariffs, land-use violations and the absence of sustained support for emerging producers. “Farms were given to Black Emerging Farmers in the PHA but left without support which will inevitably leave them to fail,” Jansen said.

On agricultural property rates and support for low-income households, Mayoral Member for Finance, Councillor Siseko Mbandezi, said the City had measures in place.

"The rates ratio for bona fide agricultural property is 1:0.20, which equates to 20% of the residential property rate-in-the-rand. This significantly reduced rate recognises the contribution of agriculture to the local economy and the social and economic welfare of farm workers," Mbandenzi added.

"The City also offers a wide range of support to residents struggling to make ends meet. Households earning below R7 500 may be eligible for indigent assistance. Those who are 60 years old and above are encouraged to apply for pensioner rebates.”

Jansen explained the stakes for Cape Town were clear. “If we don’t protect this area will have farmers moving out and handing over to people who does not have an interest or experience in farming.”

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