The future of South Africa’s pork industry takes centre stage at SpekGesprek 2025, a thought-provoking panel discussion hosted by Agritistics, the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation, and Eskort. Taking place during the Nampo Alfa expo in Bothaville, this is one of the most anticipated conversations on the agricultural calendar.
Set for Saturday, 18 October 2025, from 09:00 to 12:00 in the Member’s Hall at Nampo Park, SpekGesprek 2025 brings together experts and practitioners who are shaping the future of pig farming in South Africa. The event’s theme, “The future of pig farming: Innovation, data and growth”, invites participants to explore how innovation, technology, and smart data can drive progress across the pork value chain.
The discussion will be led by Ivor Price, co-founder of Food For Mzansi, South Africa’s leading digital agricultural media platform. A multi-award-winning journalist, author, and broadcaster, Price will guide the conversation through bold ideas, tough questions, and fresh perspectives.
“South Africans already love pork at special moments – the Sunday roast, the Christmas ham, the bacon breakfast,” says Price. “Now it’s time to unlock pork’s everyday potential. This discussion isn’t about theory; it’s about charting a future where producers, processors, and consumers all win.”
Joining Price on stage will be a powerhouse panel:
- Andrew Rheeders of Topigs Norsvin, on the business and economics of modern pig farming;
- Stefan Corbett of Agritistics, data and visualisation specialist focusing on benchmarking and decision support for pig producers;
- Shaun Mockford of Mockford Farms / The Flying Pig, championing welfare-focused farming and direct farm-to-fork pork;
- Enrike Maree of AgreetothisAgri, agricultural communicator and influencer, myth-busting and tackling consumer perceptions of pork;
- Stefan Vermaak of Eskort, chief operating officer, sharing insights on consumer behaviour, the pork value chain, and product innovation; and
- Dr Peter Evans, lead veterinarian of the RMIS Operational Centre, providing expert guidance on animal health and welfare.
Organisers say attendees can expect a lively, fast-paced conversation, complete with a hot seat question and answer session where audience members can put the experts to the test.
Beyond insights, SpekGesprek 2025 is all about connection. Guests will have the opportunity to network with producers, retailers, and industry leaders shaping the future of the sector — and enjoy a bite from the Eskort Food Truck afterwards.
Seats are limited. RSVP now using this link to secure your spot and join the conversation shaping the future of South African pork.
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