From 19 to 22 January 2026, the North-West University’s (NWU) Potchefstroom campus will transform into the national hub for agricultural innovation as it hosts the annual Combined Congress. This prestigious event is a collaborative powerhouse, merging the expertise of three leading scientific bodies: the soil, crop, and horticultural science societies of Southern Africa.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Productivity
For the progressive producer, this congress represents the frontline of future farming. By breaking down the traditional “silos” between different scientific disciplines, the event addresses the farm as a holistic ecosystem. Under the 2026 theme, “Agricultural Science taking South Africa into the future,” the focus is squarely on how high-level research translates into bin-filling yields and sustainable practices.
Climate-Smart Agriculture and Big Data
The 2026 agenda is heavily weighted toward Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and the practical integration of big data. As South African producers navigate increasingly volatile weather patterns, the discussions move beyond pure academia.
This year’s program features dedicated sessions on:
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Carbon Sequestration: Practical methods for soil carbon credits and improving organic matter.
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Precision Agriculture: Using “Big Data” to optimize resource management and reduce input waste.
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Soil Health & Biostimulants: Exploring the latest biological breakthroughs that stabilize crop performance under heat and moisture stress.
Bridging the Gap: Science Meets the Soil
With hundreds of delegates—including top researchers, industry specialists, and policymakers—the event provides an unparalleled networking platform. It offers farmers and agricultural consultants a direct line to the scientists developing the latest cultivars and sustainable farming protocols.
This interaction ensures that laboratory breakthroughs are stress-tested against the realities of the South African environment. Attendees gain early insights into new technologies and chemical formulations before they hit the commercial market.
Mapping the Next Decade
To understand the technological and environmental trajectory of South African agriculture over the next ten years, the Combined Congress is an essential fixture on the January calendar. It is not merely a meeting of minds, but a roadmap for resilience in an evolving global market.