The Agricultural Development Agency (AGDA) Annual Stakeholder & Member Engagement Conference, held at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, recently focused heavily on bridging value chain commercialisation in South Africa’s agricultural sector.
Facilitated by NAMC agricultural economist Thandeka Ntshangase, the event brought together key industry leaders, partners, and farmers to foster collaboration and inclusive growth. AGDA board chairperson Dr Matthew Phosa emphasised the urgent need for improved access to finance, insurance, and markets to help black farmers build sustainable commercial enterprises.
Panellists, including Dr Hubert Joynt from Infrastructure South Africa, highlighted that connecting farmers to markets requires far more than just production.
Efficient logistics, robust transport and distribution networks, reliable infrastructure, and strong partnerships are essential to seamlessly move produce from farms to consumers.
Gauteng MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa advocated for strategic planning aligned with real market demand, urging that finance, water, infrastructure, and delivery arrangements be coordinated directly around farmers’ business plans.
She also called on public institutions to play a stronger role in procuring goods from smaller farmers through fair, lawful, and transparent arrangements, while praising AGDA for driving practical, measurable action.
Echoing these sentiments, Wandile Sihlobo, Presidential Envoy on Agriculture and Land Reform and Chief Economist at Agbiz, stressed the importance of strengthening risk management and ensuring government support translates into tangible economic opportunities.
At its core, AGDA remains committed to advancing an inclusive and commercially sustainable agricultural sector. By working alongside partners to provide essential access to finance, skills, and markets, gatherings like this conference play a vital role in driving collective progress and shaping the future of South South African agriculture.
