Potatoes are far more than just another staple food – they are South Africa’s most consumed vegetable and one of the country’s most resilient agricultural success stories.
In this episode of AgriView, Wandile Sihlobo is joined by Willie Jacobs, CEO of Potatoes South Africa, for an insightful discussion on how the industry keeps fresh potatoes on consumers’ tables every day of the year.
They unpack the realities of producing a record potato crop, the challenges facing South Africa’s fresh produce markets, price volatility, and why better market infrastructure is critical for both farmers and consumers.
The conversation also explores how potato producers are adapting to climate volatility through better data and technology, the industry’s transformation initiatives, opportunities for emerging farmers, regional trade within SADC, and exciting efforts to reconnect young South Africans with where their food comes from.
Whether you’re involved in agriculture, interested in food security, or simply want to better understand one of South Africa’s most important agricultural sectors, this episode offers valuable perspectives from one of the industry’s leading voices.
