The Africa Agri Tech Conference, held at the CSIR Convention Centre in Pretoria from 18-20 March 2025, gathered industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to examine how technology is shaping the future of agriculture. The conference highlighted that embracing innovation is critical for improving resilience, efficiency, and sustainability in the sector.
Harnessing Technology for Agricultural Growth
Tshwane Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya opened the conference by emphasising technology-driven agriculture as a solution for food security and economic growth. She outlined the city’s strategy to develop into an agro-processing hub, creating jobs and fostering economic expansion.
Master of Ceremonies, Andries Wiese of Hollard Insurance, stressed the urgent need to mitigate agricultural risks such as climate change. “Technology must be used to mitigate these risks and improve resilience,” he stated.
Prof. Nick Binedell, founder of GIBS Business School, presented on ‘SA in Focus: Predicting the Unpredictable,’ offering strategic insights into South Africa’s agricultural landscape and the role of innovation in fostering growth.
AI and Data-Driven Decision-Making
Experts emphasised the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in transforming agriculture. Brett StClair, known as ‘The Rebel Technologist,’ discussed advancements in precision livestock farming, genetics, and animal health, stressing that AI can enhance human intelligence and improve decision-making.
Basson Engelbrecht, CEO of Reisiger Ventures, outlined how predictive analytics can optimise decision-making in farming, while Riedwaan Bassadien of Microsoft South Africa demonstrated how generative AI can help farmers anticipate market trends, detect early disease signs in livestock, and optimize vaccination schedules, enhancing productivity and profitability.
Pieter Geldenhuys, Director at the Institute for Technology Strategy and Innovation, reinforced the idea that AI is a tool to improve decision-making, not replace human intelligence. He introduced emerging innovations like laser-driven weed removal machines and the Scio Cup, a device that enables real-time feed quality analysis in the field.
Biosecurity and Traceability: Unlocking Market Potential
A panel discussion featuring Phillip Oosthuizen (Red Meat Industry Services), farmer Arné Grobbelaar, and Dr. Gerhard Neethling (Red Meat Abattoir Association) underscored the need for robust biosecurity measures and traceability systems to enhance South Africa’s meat exports. Oosthuizen announced plans for a functional traceability system by year-end, crucial for international market access.
Brazil’s agricultural attaché, Carlos Vitor Müller, shared insights from Brazil’s successful disease control measures, highlighting how stringent biosecurity protocols have secured premium markets for Brazilian beef. He emphasized that countries with superior biosecurity are the first to access high-value global markets, urging South Africa to follow suit.
The Role of Innovation in Sustainable Farming
Mpho Mence from GreenCape showcased precision drones and hydroponic farming as game-changers in boosting yields. Research findings demonstrated how tunnel farming with hydroponics increased tomato production from 60 to 392 tons per hectare, proving that technology is a key driver of efficiency and profitability.
Martin Jansen, CIO of ZZ2 and Managing Director of ThinkNinjas, shared experiences on technology investments in agriculture, advocating for standardisation and simplification. “Technology should be an exoskeleton of ‘awesome’ around a human being. Automation should enhance human capability rather than replace it.”
Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, spoke on ‘Food Security for Social Justice,’ emphasising the importance of equitable food distribution and access in South Africa.
Human-Centric Technology Adoption
Tech leader Mushambi Mutuma encouraged farmers and agribusinesses to proactively embrace change. “Your ability to succeed depends on your willingness to adapt,” he said. He urged companies to empower employees to innovate, emphasizing that technology should enhance human skills rather than replace them.
GG Alcock, a marketing entrepreneur, challenged perceptions of the informal market, highlighting its R750 billion value. He stressed that this market is not just low-income but includes consumers willing to pay premium prices for culturally relevant products, urging agribusinesses to engage with this sector strategically.
Key Takeaways: The Road Ahead for African Agriculture
- AI and Data Analytics: These tools are vital for informed decision-making, risk management, and operational efficiency.
- Biosecurity and Traceability: Enhancing disease control and product traceability will unlock global market opportunities.
- Technology Simplification: Solutions must be accessible and practical to support farmers effectively.
- Investment in Innovation: Advanced farming techniques like hydroponics and precision agriculture are essential for resilience and profitability.
- Public Engagement: Combating disinformation and fostering trust in agricultural advancements is crucial for industry growth.
The Africa Agri Tech Conference reinforced that the future of agriculture lies in embracing technology and innovation. With AI-driven decision-making, enhanced biosecurity measures, and data-powered strategies, the sector is poised to thrive in an evolving global landscape.