The highly anticipated 31st Commonwealth Agriculture Conference has officially launched its preliminary programme, marking a major milestone for the international agricultural community. For the first time in history, this prestigious event will be hosted in Cape Town, South Africa, positioning the Mother City as the global hub for agricultural dialogue later this year.
Scheduled from 1 to 5 November 2026, the conference is hosted by Agri-Expo in partnership with the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (RASC). Under the timely theme, “Opportunities of Change in a Connected World – From South Africa to the World,” the event promises to be a cornerstone of this year’s agricultural calendar. Crucially, organisers have emphasized that the conference is open to all interested delegates and agribusiness professionals, rather than being restricted to RASC members.
A Global Forum with an African Lens
Cape Town follows in the footsteps of previous world-class host cities like Edinburgh, Brisbane, Edmonton, Livingstone, and Singapore. The 2026 iteration, however, brings a unique opportunity to blend critical global priorities with distinct South African and African agricultural perspectives.
“Agriculture operates in an increasingly interconnected world,” says Breyton Milford, General Manager of Agri-Expo and RASC Trustee. “Decisions made in one part of the world increasingly affect farmers, agribusinesses, and consumers elsewhere. The programme is designed to bring together international and South African perspectives on the issues that matter most.”
Milford highlights that a core focus of the schedule will be to elevate the roles of women, young people, and future leaders who are actively shaping the industry’s trajectory. Through a dynamic mix of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking hubs, attendees will tackle urgent macro-trends—ranging from food security, sustainability, and climate resilience to shifting geopolitical trade dynamics, evolving consumer demands, and the longevity of rural communities.
Powerful Lineup of Confirmed Speakers
The preliminary programme boasts an impressive and diverse lineup of local and international trailblazers who are already confirmed to share their expertise.
South African Leaders & Innovators:
- Dr Ivan Meyer – Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism
- Christo van der Rheede – Chief Executive of the FW de Klerk Foundation
- Melt Loubser – Managing Director of Fair Cape Dairies and Chairman of the South African Milk Processors’ Organisation (SAMPRO)
- Elmarie Prinsloo – Chief Executive of Bloem Show
- Ivor Price – Co-founder and Managing Director of Food For Mzansi
- Dr Tobias Doyer – Chief Executive of Grain SA and organiser of NAMPO Harvest Day
- Shannon Robertson – Western Cape Prestige Agricultural Worker of the Year 2025
- Beauty Mokgwamme – General Manager, The Mohair Empowerment Trust
- Francois Rossouw – National Young Farmer of the Year 2025
- Stefan Gerber – Wool Producer and Founder of Gerber & Co
International Experts:
- John Bennett OAM – President of the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales, Australia
- Joel Cowley – Chief Executive of the Calgary Stampede, Canada
- Robyn Sermon – Chief Executive of the Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia
- Emily Norton – Chair of the Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB), UK
- David Grindle – President & Chief Executive of the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE), USA
- Lynda McDonald – Project Manager, Dairy Development, Tetra Laval Food for Development
Pre-Conference Tour: Firsthand Innovations
A major drawcard for the event is the exclusive Pre-Conference Tour, running from 29 to 31 October 2026. Based in and around the historic Stellenbosch region, the tour offers delegates an exclusive look at the Western Cape’s leading agricultural enterprises, educational institutions, and cutting-edge farming operations. It serves as an ideal icebreaker for international and local peers to build relationships before the main proceedings commence.
Registration Open: Preferential Rates for African Delegates
In recognition of the host continent, preferential registration rates are available to delegates from South Africa and other African nations. The conference will take place at the world-class Century City Conference Centre, with a wide array of accommodation options available nearby to suit different budgets and travel preferences.
The event is supported by key stakeholders including the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, Hollard, FNB, De Grendel Wine Estate, Fair Cape Dairies, Plaas Media, the South Africa National Convention Bureau, and Wesgro.
To view the full preliminary programme, register, or book accommodation, visit the official portal at www.rasc2026.com.