Ministers address farmers
3 October 2019
Agri SA looks forward to welcoming members representative of the entire value chain at its annual congress next week. The theme of this year’s congress is The shaping of the South African agricultural landscape in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“In a rapidly changing environment, farmers have to keep abreast of new developments in order to farm sustainably,” says Dan Kriek, Agri SA President. “Farmers are tasked with ensuring food security in South Africa with the help of technological advancements.
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, will address farmers at the congress to be held in Pretoria.
“We look forward to the Minister’s participation in the congress and have great expectations of the content of her message,” says Kriek. “We trust that she will make use of this opportunity to listen carefully to issues that affect farmers’ ability to farm sustainably.”
On the second day of Agri SA’s congress, the Minister of Human Settlements, Water and Sanitation, Lindiwe Sisulu, will address the farmers. Water is identified as a critical resource without which agricultural production is not possible.
“Matters relating to the regulation of water use rights, pollution of resources, the cost of water, and transformation are of particular interest to the farming sector. Agri SA has in the past maintained a close relationship with the government when it comes to water and we look forward to hearing what Minister Sisulu has to say.”
Speakers, both international and local, will inform congress attendees on issues relating to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and how it could affect farming practices and businesses:
- Biotechnology and nanotechnology in agriculture – Rajan Gajaria, Executive Vice President: Business Platforms of Corteva Agriscience
- The revolution of precision agriculture through artificial intelligence – Barrett Bar, Strategic Head – Integrated Solutions: John Deere Intelligent Solutions Group (USA)
- World of the Future – The impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on the World – Dr. Morné Mostert, Director: Institute for Futures Research, Stellenbosch University
Land, renewable energy, water affairs and a social cohesion compact will form part of the congress agenda, as will the election of Agri SA’s office bearers and chamber management.
“Agri SA looks forward to welcoming its delegates and guests,” says Kriek. “The congress offers an opportunity for people to come together to develop ideas for the future. It is also an opportunity for members to mandate Agri SA’s priorities for the upcoming year.”
Agri SA’s congress will be held on 10 and 11 October 2019 at the Maslow Time Square Hotel in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria.
Issued by Dan Kriek, Agri SA President, 3 October 2019
