There is a buzz going around the world about climate change and agriculture and the impact it will have, mitigation strategies and how to adapt to maintain food security. Andrea Campher, who works at Agri SA as the risk and disaster manager, is the creative force behind the organisation’s efforts to assist the farmers who are part of their network.
She joins this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track to talk more about what attracted her to the industry and what it takes to keep at it day by day despite the many problems they face.
Campher says that she had to learn quickly how disaster management works. Learning the ins and outs of how the sector works was also no easy feat, she adds, but she believes those challenges built her character.
“I am very encouraging towards colleagues or female colleagues, just to pursue, just push through. Just be the voice, just be passionate about what you do, just step up.”
How climate change affects farmers
According to Campher, diversity is the most difficult challenge in the sector. She is of the opinion that the difficulties Mzansi is presently experiencing are likely to entice potential investors to consider the possibility of investing in the country.
These challenges include the economy, climate change, the upliftment of rural communities, safety concerns, load shedding, migration of workers, and some other emerging obstacles.
“To farm is a risky enterprise. Farmers farm because they have the heart for it, at the end of the day. It’s like becoming a preacher or teacher.”
She believes that without dedication and love for farming, no one can wake up and think about farming and make it a success.
The main goal of farming is to be a thought leader, to be innovative, and to be aware of what is going on around you, she says.
“Everybody comes to a point in their life where they question what they’re doing now and how they can improve to be economically more comparative.”
During the episode, she discusses:
- The significance of conducting your own research to help you thrive;
- How important it is to network with other farmers; and
- How to make informed decisions.
Want to know more? Listen to the full episode of Farmer’s Inside Track.
Option 1: Click here to listen on Spotify (all mobile and other devices).
Option 2: Click here listen on any Apple device.
Option 3: Click here to listen on Google Podcast
READ NEXT: Managing disasters in the farming sector
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