President Jacob Zuma has conceded that the drought being experienced across South Africa is an impediment to economic growth, but again stopped short of calling it a national disaster.
He was speaking at the opening the National House of Traditional Leaders in Parliament on Thursday
Zuma said while several government departments were enforcing plans to help those affected and reprioritising funding towards drought relief, it would not completely alleviate the plight of farmers.
He said there were shortfalls and there was still a need for assistance on the ground, adding that it was a difficult period for farmers and communities alike.
Zuma said farmers and ordinary South Africans alike would feel the pinch.
Five provinces - KwaZulu-Natal, North West, the Free State, Limpopo and Mpumalanga - have been declared provincial disaster areas.
Meat and grain producers have predicted a steep rise in food prices, as maize yields are expected to be lower and animals die as a result of a lack of feed and water.
