ARAC UPDATE No. 20
2 June 2010
Dear Farmer,
This week we have decided to give information on a number of different things.
However we would also like to know how we can serve you better. Einstein said “If you keep doing the same thing you will get the same result!”
We started our efforts at ARAC aiming to make a difference and it is now several months down the road and perhaps you out there would be prepared to assist us with some feedback. Yesterday we had a very interesting visit from a farming lady who simply asked “What are you doing about engaging the younger generation?” She was referring especially to those who grew up on farms and who, through the last few years, have been forced away. They still think of “home” and need to be kept in the loop.
Whilst every effort is being made to bring a speedy resolution to the compensation issue, there is no timeline in place yet. For many, this younger generation may well be the party that brings this chapter to a close. I am sure that there are also many anxious to be involved in the recovery of the country and we would like to have their input. For some maybe the trauma that was experienced still haunts them, we would like to help. If any of you have family members in this category who you believe would benefit by being kept informed, please send us their contact details and we will add them to our mailing list.
There are a few questions we would like to pose:
Are we reaching our target and are we doing the right stuff?
Are we providing real service to our members?
What is our relationship like with former members?
Is our purpose clear?
What are we not doing that can make the difference?
We value your input and are not afraid of criticism so send it!!
Congress will be upon us shortly on the 2nd and 3rd of August. This year the first day’s agenda will be devoted to in house business and is open to all paid up and former members. Only paid up members will be able to vote, however for those who are anxious to re-evaluate their relationship with the union and help chart the way forward this will be a great opportunity.
Following our recent circulation of the Recovery Proposal, we are concerned that the renewed efforts to bring focus to the compensation issue have created expectations. We would be irresponsible to predict either a quantum or a time line. Nonetheless we believe the Recovery Proposal is a smart initiative i.e., specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound, and we are making every effort to achieve this.
We promised feedback on the legal position in relation to mothballed companies and deceased estates; we are awaiting a full opinion and will disseminate this in due course.
With regards to your membership of the Union, we at ARAC are attempting to restore communication with all former members. We would encourage as many as can to rejoin as the essential requirement for a mandate is to have the endorsement of a live membership. We hope that the service and efforts on behalf of farmers will encourage the vast majority to rejoin. We are currently trying to streamline mechanisms for a smooth process for those in external situations. We are equally anxious to promote accountable and inclusive representation for all. Contact the ARAC office email: [email protected] for more details.
We would like to thank you for your support and assure you that we are all working tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for all farmers past, present and future.
ARAC – Agriculture Recovery & Compensation
COMMERCIAL FARMERS UNION OF ZIMBABWE
Tel: +263 4 309800-19 ext 249
Email: [email protected]
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