It’s estimated that a potential drop of 10% in agricultural produce due to the drought could lead to 17,000 job losses in the South Africa's Western Cape, according to Independent Online.
An agricultural economist has also warned that the current drought will have the biggest impact on seasonal employment in December.
Standing committee chairperson on economic opportunities, tourism, and agriculture Beverley Schäfer said the drop in the production in produce could lead to 17,000 job losses in the agricultural sector.
“Between 2003 and 2016, climate-related extreme events cost the Western Cape approximately R7.12billion.”
Businesses have also warned that the persistent drought will be felt by consumers. The Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry said consumers can brace themselves for an increase in prices of agricultural goods.
1 R = 0.077 USD
Source: agrisa.co.za
