Top experts to tackle climate crisis at agriculture summit

In response to increasing climate-related challenges impacting the sector, Food For Mzansi will host the Emergency Summit on Climate Change and Agriculture on Friday, 18 October 2024. The event aims to forge pathways for adapting practices to withstand erratic weather, severe droughts, and rising temperatures that are increasingly threatening food security across South Africa.

The summit, hosted at Tshwane University of Technology’s main campus in Pretoria, will unite experts, farmers, and policymakers to address the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies in farming.

In addition to formal presentations, organisers say the summit will include panel discussions, interactive sessions, and testimonies from farmers who have been directly impacted by climate-related disasters. These farmers will share insights into how they are adapting to the realities of climate change, from shifting planting seasons to adopting more sustainable farming practices.

Among the key speakers already confirmed is Dimpho Xaba, a renowned farmer and lecturer, who will explore the relationship between water management and sweet potato drought resistance. Known for his innovative practices on his 136-hectare farm in Pretoria North, he will present research that could transform crop selection and boost food production resilience.

Agricultural economists from the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC) will share new research on hot topics. Thulani Ningi will provide a critical analysis of the nation’s food systems amid climate disruptions, focusing on the implications for food security and the livelihoods of millions.

Buhlebemvelo Dube will address the vital maize industry, examining how unpredictable weather patterns – such as droughts and heatwaves – affect maize production and trade. He will highlight the long-term consequences for competitiveness in global markets.

Bhekani Zondo will present his research on the effects of climate change on international trade, specifically exploring its impact on wine exports. His insights will contribute valuable context to the summit discussions on agro-food trade.

The event will also tackle the evolving role of carbon credits in agriculture through a session on the opportunities and pitfalls of carbon offset finance for farmers. As climate-smart practices gain traction, this will provide farmers with valuable information on how to navigate carbon markets and reap financial and environmental benefits.

Diverse perspectives on climate resilience

Among the other speakers at the Emergency Summit on Climate Change and Agriculture are Dr Hendrik Smith, a conservation agriculture facilitator at ASSET Research, who will discuss the transformative potential of regenerative farming practices. Emphasising soil health and ecosystem vitality, he will highlight how these methods are not merely trends but essential shifts that benefit farmers of all scales.

Siphiwe Sithole, founder of African Marmalade farm in Gauteng, will present her vision for integrating indigenous African crops into climate-smart agriculture. She will explore how these crops not only enhance food security but also strengthen local food systems and preserve cultural heritage.

Dr André Laas, principal consultant at Indagatus, will unveil an innovative social franchise model aimed at making urban and township agriculture both profitable and sustainable. His approach features scalable shade structures equipped with water-efficient technologies, adaptable to various urban settings.

Meanwhile, Ryan Marsden, coordinator of Ranyaka Community Transformation, will share insights from the Magaliesburg Development Initiative, which has fostered community development and climate-resilient agriculture in the region west of Johannesburg. Through collaboration with local stakeholders, key initiatives have emerged, including training in small-scale agriculture and scientific soil testing.

With a growing consensus that urgent action is required, this summit aims to create a platform for meaningful dialogue and the exchange of practical solutions. Agricultural stakeholders across the country are expected to attend, with many seeing the event as a vital opportunity to shape the future of farming in South Africa.