Land activist and lawyer Tembeka Nguckaitobi believes that the key to speeding up land reform in South Africa lies in political will. Speaking at the Kgalema Motlanthe Foundation’s summit, Ngcukaitobi highlighted the lack of focus on land redistribution among the country’s leaders, particularly the ruling ANC.
He emphasized the need for the state to prioritize redistributing land to those who truly need it, rather than benefiting comrades or white consultants. Nguckaitobi pointed out that the government is well aware of the historical context of land ownership in the country, echoing sentiments dating back to Jan van Riebeek’s time.
Expressing frustration at the lack of progress in addressing land reform, Ngcukaitobi urged for a change in political direction. Meanwhile, former president Kgalema Motlanthe emphasized the importance of investing in the youth and adapting to changing trends in Africa.
It is evident that despite the ANC’s historical mandate to address land dispossession, little progress has been made, leading to a sense of impatience and despondency among activists like Ngcukaitobi.