In the face of escalating climate challenges, South Africa’s agricultural sector is set to come together for the Emergency Summit on Climate Change and Agriculture, an urgent gathering of experts, farmers, and key stakeholders.
The summit, taking place on Friday, 18 October 2024, at the Golden Pipit Country Conference Centre in Centurion, Gauteng is a call to action for those on the frontlines of the climate crisis. With last-minute tickets now available for R150 on Quicket, it is expected to draw a diverse audience eager to explore innovative solutions for the future of farming.
The summit aims to address the growing uncertainty surrounding climate change’s impact on agricultural productivity, food security, and trade in South Africa, says Food For Mzansi co-founder Kobus Louwrens.
He highlights the significance of the event: “Climate change is already affecting farmers across the country, and we cannot afford to be reactive. We need to be proactive in finding solutions and adapting to ensure the resilience of our food systems.”
Precision agriculture and youth innovators
Dr Tara Southey, founder and CEO of TerraClim, will deliver the opening keynote address, focusing on the role of precision technology in building climate-resilient agricultural systems.
In her talk, titled “Harnessing technology for resilient agriculture: Nowhere to go, know where to go,” she will challenge traditional reliance on satellite and AI-driven data, arguing for more precise, ground-level solutions to help farmers navigate the changing environment.
One of the summit’s standout sessions is a panel discussion titled “Climate rebels – farmers on the frontlines.”
This discussion will feature young farmers who are innovating to remain productive despite increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Their stories offer hope and practical strategies for those struggling to adapt to harsher farming conditions.
Sustainability and regenerative agriculture will also take centre stage, with presentations from leaders in the field. Dr Hendrik Smith, conservation agriculture facilitator at ASSET Research, will explore how regenerative farming practices are not only a pathway to sustainability but also an opportunity to improve soil health and biodiversity.
Complementing this is a talk by Marla Naidoo, director for Southern Africa at the Rainforest Alliance, on shifting from sustainability to regeneration, a critical move in ensuring agriculture’s long-term viability in the face of climate change.
Exploring crop resilience and economic impacts
Innovative research into climate-resilient crops will be another key theme of the summit. Dimpho Xaba, a farmer and crop science lecturer, will present new research on the drought resistance of sweet potatoes, providing insight into the role water levels play in promoting root growth under stress conditions.
Meanwhile, agricultural economists like Buhlebemvelo Dube and Bhekani Zondo from the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) will provide a macroeconomic perspective on the impact of climate change on South Africa’s maize production and wine exports, respectively.
Thulani Ningi, PhD candidate and NAMC economist, will delve into the interconnected challenges of food, energy, and water security for rural households, as well as the broader implications for national food security. As climate change increasingly threatens both crop and livestock production, he will spotlight the urgent need for adaptive strategies to safeguard the livelihoods of millions across the country.
Innovation and community efforts
The Emergency Summit on Climate Change and Agriculture will also feature technology and innovation in agriculture. Chantel Arendse, lead of plant biotechnology at CropLife South Africa, will discuss the potential of biotechnology in combating climate change, focusing on enhancing crop resilience against droughts and pests.
Joubert Roux, executive chairman of Zero Carbon Charge, will explore the future of electric vehicles in agriculture, including the use of electric tractors as a greener alternative for farmers.
Additionally, carbon credits will be demystified by Pieter van Niekerk, principal sales manager at Anthesis South Africa, as he explains how farmers can tap into carbon markets, both to reduce emissions and to create new revenue streams.
Furthermore, practical case studies will be presented, illustrating how communities are adopting climate-smart agriculture. Siphiwe Sithole, founder of African Marmalade Farm, will discuss the revival of indigenous African crops like sorghum and millet, which offer natural resilience against harsh climatic conditions.
The Magaliesburg Development Initiative, presented by Ryan Marsden of Ranyaka Community Transformation, will highlight how collaborative efforts are empowering local farmers through education and climate-resilient farming practices.
Additionally, Dr André Laas, principal consultant at Indagatus, will introduce an innovative approach to urban and township agriculture through the social franchise model for sustainable farming. This offers a blueprint for scalable, climate-smart farming in urban environments, utilising water-efficient shade structures that operate without electricity.
- With a packed programme of expert insights and actionable strategies, the summit promises to be a critical event for anyone invested in the future of farming in South Africa. Tickets, priced at R150, are available on Quicket.
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