By Invitation

A ground-breaking programme is addressing gender-based violence in South Africa’s rural communities and empowering young men to fight harmful stereotypes.

South Africa is hindered by insufficient and incoherent policies regarding disaster relief for farmers, say Dr Theo de Jager and Francois Rossouw of Saai. A solid policy on disaster relief is needed to support farmers, including those recently been affected by the devastating fires that swept across several provinces.

The Fairtrade movement was one of the first to focus on social and ethical trading. Paul Colditz, commercial director at Fairtrade Africa, spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the opportunities and challenges Fairtrade faces.

The issue of land reform was mentioned as a positive development in the State of the Nation Address in February 2024, when President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated that the 30% target set for agricultural land transferred to black South Africans by 2030 was already approaching 25%.

While it may lack the glamour of other industries, agriculture is arguably one of the most crucial sectors for the South African economy, contributing significantly to food security, employment, export earnings, and the broader economy, and providing the foundation for rural life.

Contributing to the dignity of women in agriculture is about much more than simply promoting gender equality, says Elizabeth Ralefatane, a programme coordinator at the Seriti Institute.

DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen can build on the foundation of the previous administration and implement a comprehensive strategy that prioritises transformation, writes Lukhanyo Nkombisa, general manager of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa’s Grower Development Company.

While issues like climate change are crucial, seeds – the foundation of most of the food value chain – deserve attention, writes Dr Lukeshni Chetty, general manager of the South African National Seed Organization.

Daneel Rossouw, head of sales for agriculture at Nedbank Commercial Banking, explores how conservation agriculture (CA) could significantly improve the sustainability of South African agriculture.

South Africa’s thriving macadamia export industry requires specialised insurance. Werner Bezuidenhout of Aon South Africa highlights the crucial role of stock throughput cover to safeguard the entire supply chain, ensuring quality from farm to consumer.

Coal-based power is the main source of carbon emissions in fruit production. With the carbon tax looming over South Africa’s export markets, the shift to renewable energy is all the more urgent. However, as Lindi Botha reports, Eskom has few such plans in place.