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PwC Report Highlights Urgent Need for Technological Innovations to Enhance SA’s Food Security

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PwC Report Highlights Urgent Need for Technological Innovations to Enhance SA’s Food Security

In 2023, the volume of food and beverages sold per capita at South African grocery stores and supermarkets declined by an estimated 3.2%. This decline was primarily due to a reduction in the inflation-adjusted buying power of salaries and wages. The adverse effects continue into 2024, impacting the affordability of staple foods like maize meal, with prices expected to rise significantly due to environmental factors such as El Niño.

Precision Agriculture

The report advocates for a ‘second green revolution’ driven by technological innovation, emphasizing the role of precision agriculture. This approach employs advanced tools like water management software, remote irrigation monitoring, and predictive analytics to enhance farm productivity and sustainability. These technologies optimize resource use, potentially increase crop yields, and improve livestock management through real-time data and automated systems.

Smart Manufacturing

Nearly half of all food loss and waste in South Africa occurs at the manufacturing stage, largely due to inaccurate demand forecasting. Adopting a demand-driven material requirements planning (DDMRP) system could reduce surplus inputs and waste in food production by aligning production more closely with actual demand.

Minimize Food Waste

The report highlights the critical role of retail strategies in reducing food waste. It suggests upgrading inventory systems and altering marketing practices to prevent over-purchasing and better manage perishable goods. Engaging consumers through educational campaigns on minimizing food waste can further enhance these efforts.

Sustainable Development Goals

Implementing these strategies aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12.3, which aims to halve per capita global food waste at the retail and consumer levels by 2030. The report notes marginal progress in this area in South Africa, with a slight decrease in food waste at the retail level from 2019 to 2022.

These strategic initiatives are crucial not only for improving food security but also for ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of South Africa’s food systems in the face of ongoing economic and environmental challenges.

SA Wine Leaders Forge Path for Global Sustainability and Innovation

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SA Wine Leaders Forge Path for Global Sustainability and Innovation

On 23 May 2024, the South African wine industry marked a significant milestone at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Celebrating 30 years of democracy and transformation, industry leaders, stakeholders, and media gathered to discuss and strategize the future of South African wine. The summit, under the theme “Focus, Believe, Implement,” resonated with a clear message of seizing opportunities and positioning South African wine as a global leader in sustainability and innovation.

Economic Impact and Strategic Challenges

The summit highlighted the transformative journey of the wine industry since 1994, showcasing its advancements in technology and cultivation, which have positioned South Africa as a noteworthy player on the global wine stage. The industry now supports 270,000 jobs, with substantial export and domestic consumption figures, demonstrating its significant impact on the economy.

SA Wine SummitRico Basson, CEO of South Africa Wine, outlined the critical battles and growth opportunities for the industry. Despite challenges such as cash flow pressures, political uncertainty, and a decrease in vineyard plantings, Basson emphasized the need for strategic interventions to propel growth. The upcoming months are crucial as South Africa Wine plans to launch revised strategic propositions to assist stakeholders in navigating uncertainties and enhancing sustainability.

Navigating Uncertainty: Insights from Bruce Whitfield

The summit also served as a platform for Bruce Whitfield, a renowned journalist and speaker, who stressed the importance of resilience and seizing opportunities amid global challenges like warfare and technological disruptions. Whitfield urged leaders to focus on actionable insights and prepare for future scenarios rather than attempting to predict them. His advocacy for data-driven decision-making and a perspective shift towards an optimistic outlook on humanity’s progress was a call to action for the industry.

SA Wine Summit

Sustainability at the Forefront: Dr. John Barker’s Call to Action

A significant focus was placed on sustainability, with Dr. John Barker, OIV Director-General, addressing the global challenges faced by the wine industry, particularly climate change. Dr. Barker called for unprecedented innovation and cooperation to navigate these challenges effectively. He emphasized the need for the wine industry to adapt to shifting societal and consumer trends to maintain resilience and secure a sustainable future.

Empowerment and Local Market Strategies

Throughout the summit, discussions on local market conditions and strategies for empowerment and transformation were prevalent. Insights from Ivor Price and panelists like Daphne Neethling and Denzel Swarts highlighted the importance of resilience, community engagement, and education in shaping a forward-looking wine industry.

Vision for the Future: Innovation and Global Leadership

Conclusively, the summit underscored the wine industry’s capacity for innovation and its crucial role in cultural and economic spheres. With a united vision of sustainability and growth, the South African wine industry is poised to overcome present challenges and emerge stronger, making significant contributions both locally and globally. The event, supported by Nedbank and other partners, was not just a reflection of the past achievements but a robust blueprint for a thriving, sustainable future.

Western Cape Boosts Citrus Exports with R2 Million Investment in Pest Control Innovation

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Western Cape Boosts Citrus Exports with R2 Million Investment in Pest Control Innovation

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has presented a R2 million cheque to the Citrus Growers Association (CGA) to support the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) programme aimed at suppressing False Codling Moth (FCM).

FCM is a phytosanitary pest affecting export crops such as citrus, table grapes, and stone fruit.

The support received from the provincial government is a significant step in expanding the use of a truly groundbreaking method. SIT offers immense potential in reducing pest pressure and ensuring that South African agricultural products meet the strict standards required by international markets. Addressing FCM in the Western Cape will contribute to increased export earnings for especially the citrus industry, creating jobs and uplifting rural communities. SIT also reduces the reliance on environmentally harmful pesticides and leads to improved fruit quality.

SIT utilises cutting-edge science. Colonies of FCM are raised in special facilities. The male and female insects are sterilized using radiation from the isotope Cobalt-60 and are safely released in large numbers. Females mated with sterile males then lay eggs that do not hatch. A large decline in the pest population follows.

Trials for the SIT programme in Citrusdal began in 2005 through a collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture and the International Atomic Energy Agency. The successes that followed lead to the founding of X Sterile Insect Technique (X-SIT).  X-SIT now administers the SIT programme lending the programme their expertise.

Despite its immense potential, the SIT programme faces challenges in that it is expensive. The high cost of SIT compared to cheaper but much less sustainable alternatives threatens its long-term viability.

The programme currently covers 20,400 hectares but has the potential to expand to over 40,000 hectares with adequate funding. This expansion could facilitate the creation of an estimated 50 job opportunities. The CGA has emphasized the critical need for financial support to sustain and grow the SIT program, ensuring the continued production of export-quality residue-free fruit.

Currently, the entire programme is funded by citrus and table grape growers who use the service themselves. However, the R2 million funding received aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens of the Western Cape growers and help ensure the continuation and expansion of this vital pest management strategy.

Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, said, “Our support for the SIT programme underscores our commitment to a sustainable agricultural sector. This funding will help secure the future of our citrus industry, ensuring that it remains competitive in the global market while protecting our environment and creating jobs.”

Justin Chadwick, CEO of the CGA, expressed his gratitude, saying: “The generous support from the Western Cape Government is a significant boost for X-SIT and everybody involved. The CGA hopes this type of agricultural innovation will find widespread support, as developing new technologies, though essential, does not come cheaply.”

 

Challenging Landscape for SA Fruit Exporters

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Challenging Landscape for SA Fruit Exporters

Gary Britz, Managing Director of Cape Town-based fresh produce exporter ELE™ Trading, highlights the increasingly challenging environment for the fruit export industry. Over the past decade, a multitude of external threats have emerged, reshaping the landscape. “Comparing our 2014 SWOT analysis to one we just did in 2024, it is radically different,” Britz remarks. These threats range from the lingering effects of COVID-19 to elevated shipping rates, port issues, and global political unrest. The impact of El Niño and escalating fertilizer prices further complicates the scenario.

Financial Pressures

The financial aspect of the business has become particularly taxing. “Cash flow has become such a big thing,” says Britz. Securing commitments from receivers who are increasingly hesitant to finalize payments adds another layer of difficulty. This is especially challenging for medium to small exporters who struggle to secure stock commitments, thereby complicating their operational stability.

Citrus Export Challenges

The start of South Africa’s citrus season has been disappointing, primarily due to unfavourable weather conditions. “We badly need rain and colder weather, which we have not really had in the Western Cape,” explains Britz. This has led to delayed ripening and increased insect activity, negatively affecting fruit quality. Despite these setbacks, the export of lemons has continued, albeit at a slow pace, with the first shipments to the U.S. already underway.

Britz notes significant changes in market preferences and pricing, particularly in China where demand for Star Ruby has decreased. “Prices dropped almost to reach production level cost,” he states. The surge in soft citrus plantings raises concerns about their impact on the market share of traditional oranges, as they begin to occupy more shelf space.

Infrastructure and Future Prospects

The lack of improvement in South African export infrastructure, particularly at Durban port, remains a critical issue. Ongoing legal battles and equipment delays continue to hinder operations. However, there is optimism about the potential growth in fruit carton exports, with the CGA Vision 260 aiming to increase from 180 million to 260 million cartons in the next eight years.

Navigating the Future

Britz emphasizes the necessity of viewing their operation not merely as fruit exporting but as risk management. “It is all about security of supply and management of risk,” he states. Ensuring that trading partners are reliable and creditworthy is essential for survival in this high-stakes industry.

Britz concludes on a cautious yet hopeful note, stressing the importance of adaptability and stringent risk management to navigate the complex and evolving challenges faced by small fruit exporters in South Africa.

South African Flora blooms again at The Chelsea Flower Show

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South African Flora blooms again at The Chelsea Flower Show

 Following a partnership between Cape Flora SA (CFSA) and the Western Cape Government, CFSA Board Member and Managing Director of De Fynne Nursery near Paarl, Jacky Goliath will be flying the flag for both upcoming and commercial cut flower producers of South Africa at the Chelsea Flower Show which opens in London today, 21 May 2024.

This international flower show, hosted by the Royal Horticultural Society, is internationally acclaimed and attracts thousands of international visitors annually.

South African fynbos displays have won 37 gold medals since 1976 when it participated for the first time and is the favourite of many flower enthusiasts.

Jacky Goliath said, “The South African team and our products have been well received. Being part of the team and working with our national plants is just so exciting. Everyone is excited to see South Africa back at the show.”

“South African products stand out so nicely. It is an honour to represent South Africa.”

South Africa’s exhibit at Chelsea will showcase the diversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Fynbos cut flowers are one of the Western Cape’s income-generating export products. Cape flora accounts for 90% of South Africa’s cut flower exports and provides income to many communities in rural areas.

In 2023, fresh-cut flowers performed better than dried flowers on the global export markets and were valued at R85 billion compared to R10 billion for dried flowers.

Focusing on South Africa, fresh-cut flowers also performed better than dried flowers on the export markets and were valued at R932 million compared to R98 million for dried flowers in 2023.

According to the manager of Cape Flora, Mrs Karien Bezuidenhout, the growth of the export market has triggered modernisation and innovation within the industry.

Karien Bezuidenhout said, “This has led to higher product quality which has benefitted sales in domestic and international markets. The growing demand for high-quality fynbos products in international markets is welcomed, providing livelihoods for stakeholders and communities within the South African fynbos industry.”

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Dr Ivan Meyer, welcomed the news of South Africa’s participation.

Minister Meyer said, “Our participation in the event will showcase the unique fynbos of the Western Cape, and with the potential increase in the export of fynbos cut-flowers, more jobs will be created and both commercial and new farmers will benefit.”

Nampo 2024 Ends on High with Record Crowds, Agricultural Innovations

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Nampo 2024 Ends on High with Record Crowds, Agricultural Innovations

Nampo Harvest Day 2024, South Africa’s largest agricultural show, concluded its festivities from 14 – 17 May 2024 in Bothaville, Free State, attracting a record-breaking turnout of 86 474 visitors over the four days.

Key Discussions and Insights

This year’s theme, “Agriculture in a Digital Era,” highlighted the transformative potential of digital tools in agriculture, emphasizing strategies for resilience, optimization of farmer support, and collaborative solutions.

Nation in Conversation, a key feature of Nampo Harvest Day 2024, offered a dynamic forum for addressing critical topics at the intersection of agriculture and digital technology. Facilitated by notable hosts Anlie Hatting, Waldimar Pelser, and Theo Vorster, the discussions delved into a range of crucial issues, including strategies for resilience and adaptation, optimizing farmer support services, and finding collaborative solutions in times of adversity. Additional key discussions explored the significant impact of elections on agriculture and the broader commitment and impact of the agricultural sector in making a difference within South Africa. These comprehensive dialogues underscored the importance of a unified approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the agricultural community today.

Nampo

Despite the challenges posed by a prolonged drought affecting farmers’ budgets, the atmosphere at Nampo was overwhelmingly positive, with most exhibitors reporting good sales. Dirk Strydom, marketing lead for Nampo, attributed the event’s smooth execution to the strong networks formed and maintained, which are vital for the continued success and future sales of exhibitors.

Youth Engagement and Technological Advances

A key takeaway from this year’s event was the active engagement and interest shown by young farmers, signalling a shift towards a new generation eager to apply innovative approaches to farming. Dr. Theo de Jager, chairperson of the Southern African Agri Initiative, noted the increased participation of students and young professionals who are bringing fresh perspectives and solutions to the field.

Latest in Agricultural Vehicles: Bakkies and Vans Unveiled

Highlighting the technological advancements in agricultural machinery, Nampo 2024 also featured an impressive display of new bakkies and vans, showcasing the latest models from leading manufacturers like Ford, Mahindra, and Toyota. These launches underline the show’s role not only as a hub for agricultural innovation but also as a pivotal marketplace for agricultural vehicles and equipment.

Andries Wiese, national business development manager at Hollard, highlighted the constructive nature of discussions at the event, with a focus on problem-solving rather than merely highlighting issues. This positive engagement is crucial for advancing the agricultural sector amid economic and climatic challenges.

Nampo

Exhibitors at Nampo 2024 also adapted to the current economic climate by offering discounts and low-rate loans, catering to the specific needs of budget-conscious farmers. This strategic approach helped ensure that interactions, although fewer in number this year, were more likely to result in sales.

The event also showcased the adaptability of the agricultural sector through its ability to embrace and integrate digital innovations, which are essential for future growth and sustainability. The success of Nampo 2024 reaffirms its role as a key event for networking, knowledge exchange, and business development in the agricultural community.

Nampo’s Growth and Future Outlook

As Nampo continues to grow and evolve, it remains a cornerstone for the agricultural sector in South Africa, fostering resilience and innovation among farmers and stakeholders alike. Tracing its origins back to 1967, when a mere 200 producers attended the inaugural show on a farm outside Bloemfontein, Nampo has expanded significantly, reflecting the dynamic nature of the agricultural industry and its capacity to adapt and thrive over decades.

The next Nampo event will be held at Nampo Cape in Bredasdorp from 11 – 14 September 2024, followed by Nampo Alfa in Bothaville from 17 – 19 September 2024.

 

 

A Journey Through the Vineyards of the Western Cape

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Located at the southern tip of Africa, the Western Cape is not just a stunningly beautiful landscape blessed with majestic mountains and lush valleys, but also the heartland of South African winemaking. This region, blessed with a Mediterranean climate and diverse terroirs, stands as a reflection of centuries-old traditions of viticulture and winemaking.

The Western Cape’s wine routes offer more than just the pleasure of wine tasting; they provide a cultural experience, showcasing the rich history, vibrant communities, and innovative spirit that have shaped South African wine into a world-class product. As travellers wind their way through this region, each vineyard tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship, inviting wine lovers and curious explorers to uncover the flavours and histories each glass holds.

Wine Routes

From the Agulhas Wine Triangle to the Bot River Wine Route, and from the Breedekloof Wine Valley to the Constantia Wine Route, and the Darling Wine Route to the Durbanville Wine Route, these routes wind through picturesque landscapes and diverse terroirs. Travellers are drawn into the stories and flavours distinct to each area.

Whether exploring historic estates along the Elgin Valley Wine Route or savouring the boutique gems of the Franschhoek Wine Valley, each route promises an immersive cultural experience, blending tradition with innovation in the heartland of South African viticulture.

Continuing the journey, visitors can explore the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley, Klein Karoo Wine Route, Namaqua West Coast Wine Route, Orange River Wine Route, Plettenberg Bay Wine Route, Paarl Wine Route, Robertson Wine Valley, Stanford Wine Route, Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Swartland Wine & Olive Route, Tulbagh Wine Route, Wellington Wine Route, and Worcester Wine & Olive Route.

A Pioneer in South African Winemaking

Established in 1971, Stellenbosch is believed to be the oldest South African wine route and the catalyst for the country’s ever-increasing wine tourism industry. This leading wine region plays host to more than 200 acclaimed estates, fringed by spectacular mountain views that are as captivating as the wines produced.

The Cradle of Winemaking in the Cape

In the cradle of the winemaking Cape, the Constantia wine route stands as one of the country’s most famous. Historically, this is where the first vineyards were planted. Legend has it that Napoleon Bonaparte was so captivated by the eponymous sweet wine that he allegedly refused anything else from his deathbed. Today, Constantia balances its rich history with innovative practices that continue to push the boundaries of winemaking.

South Africa’s Boutique Wine Gem

Known as South Africa’s smallest wine region, the Plettenberg Bay Winelands represents the boutique wine experience. This emerging wine route is gaining acclaim for its unique wines and stunning settings, offering a more intimate and personalized wine-tasting experience.

Wine Tours and Experiences

The wine routes of the Western Cape are not only about tasting and purchasing wine, but are also rich in diverse experiences. Facilities along these routes include luxurious accommodations, restaurants arts and culture events, nature reserves, and hiking and mountain biking trails. More unique offerings include river cruises, spa treatments, wedding venues, wine safaris, and extensive wine tasting sessions that educate as much as they entertain.
As the global interest in South African wines continues to grow, the wine routes of the Western Cape offer a compelling blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and viticultural excellence.

Discover the joy of slowing down at Darling Brew

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Discover the joy of slowing down at Darling Brew

“Darling Brew is one of the most recognisable and highly acclaimed craft beer brands in South Africa, however, we are not just a craft brewery, but rather an innovative and dynamic beverage company, that strives to be the leading independent beverage company in South Africa, through innovation, quality, consistency, and relevance. Established in 2010 in the small town of Darling on the West Coast, Darling Brew is officially Africa’s first carbon-neutral brewery, and a bastion of operational excellence throughout the industry.

Inspiration from Nature

Darling Brew was conceptualised in the beautiful outdoors, and our beers have subsequently been brewed to be enjoyed out in nature – which is also where we have the privilege of encountering our planet’s awesome creatures on our journeys around the globe.

This is why every Darling Brew craft beer that we put out into the world aims to drive awareness with regard to the countless endangered animal species that we should all be protecting. As such, each beer – including the names and images that grace the labels – has been inspired by a different animal on the endangered species list! Examples are, our flagship Slow Lager inspired by the Geometric Tortoise, Bone Crusher inspired by the Spotted Hyena, Gypsy Mask inspired by the Roan Antelope, War Lord inspired by The Black Rhino and our newest addition The Wanderer inspired by the Wandering Albatross.

Diverse Product Range

We offer a variety of beverage portfolios, including Craft Beer, Premium Beer, Spirits, Ready to Drink, and Non-Alcohol, plus non beverage products in the shape of our highly innovative Beer Grain Crisps. Darling Brew’s Beer Grain Crisps are made with 40% spent grain. Spent Grain is a by-product of the brewing operation. This grain – which is high in minerals, proteins and dietary fibre – is usually discarded (or in our case donated to local farmers to feed their livestock). By allowing one harvest to yield two returns, we are further decreasing our carbon footprint, allowing for better utilisation of farming land, and avoiding unnecessary transport and energy usage.

Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle

 

Darling Brew

As we value a healthy family orientated lifestyle, we host a number of exciting outdoor activities such as trail running with our DB Trail and DB Vine to Hops, and our various MTB events such as the renowned DBX and the newly established DB Paternoster MTB Challenge.

If you haven’t ever visited us in Darling, or even if you have, you should pump up those tyres, and book your place on the 25th May for the 11th edition of the DBX, an exhilarating and fun filled event, with great beer to refresh you at the finish!”

Entries via www.darlingbrew.co.za

Fairview A Beacon of Cheese Excellence in the South African Dairy Industry

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Fairview Cheese Company, nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, has long been synonymous with high-quality dairy products. Established over decades of innovation and tradition, Fairview has carved out a niche for itself with a diverse range of both cow’s milk and goat’s milk cheeses. One of the farm’s most notable attractions is the iconic Goat Tower, a unique structure that adds a whimsical charm to the vineyard and is a must-see for visitors.

Fairview’s cheese range is expansive, featuring over 50 artisanal varieties including white mould cheeses, blue cheeses, feta, and cream cheeses. This selection caters to all tastes, from the traditional Brie and Camembert to innovative creations like White and Blue Rock cheeses. All Fairview cheeses are made with non-animal rennet, ensuring they are Halal and Kosher certified.

The company’s commitment to excellence was recently highlighted at the South African Dairy Awards, where Fairview won 10 awards.

FairviewNotable winners included their Woolworths Feta with Red Pepper & Chilli, Fairview Cream Cheese Black Pepper, Fairview Triple Cream Camembert, and Fairview Cream Cheese Onion & Chives. These accolades underscore Fairview’s dedication to quality, from the careful selection of milk to the meticulous aging process.

Visiting Fairview offers more than just cheese tasting; it’s an experience. Guests can explore the farm, meet the famous goats that contribute to the cheesemaking process, and indulge in the vast array of products available. Fairview not only promises a delightful culinary journey, but also a memorable day out in the scenic Cape Winelands.

Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with wine, or used in gourmet dishes, Fairview cheese is a testament to the art of cheesemaking. As you savour these award-winning cheeses, you’re not just tasting cheese; you’re experiencing a piece of South African dairy heritage.

Discover the Best of the Cape at the Inaugural Winelands Autumn Expo

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The inaugural Winelands Autumn Expo, scheduled for 24 – 25 May, 2024, in Worcester, Cape Winelands District, offers a unique celebration of the region’s diverse offerings.

Spanning 23,000 km², the district is known for its rich agricultural heritage, pristine mountains, unique fauna and flora, and endless blue skies, making it a picturesque setting for the event.

This first-of-its-kind event offers an opportunity to explore the rich agricultural heritage and scenic beauty of the area, encompassing five renowned areas: Breede Valley, Drakenstein, Langeberg, Stellenbosch, and Witzenberg.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of local products, including award-winning wines, artisanal beers, and gourmet foods, while enjoying live performances and arts and crafts. The expo will feature a wide range of stalls offering local produce, exquisite spirits, and more.

Family-friendly amenities include a special activity area for children, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Additionally, attendees can participate in competitions to win weekend getaways, adding an element of excitement to the event.
The event promises to be an enriching experience, showcasing the best of the Winelands’ hospitality and adventure opportunities.

Experience the Winelands

Embark on a weekend journey of discovery as you explore the best adventures the Winelands has to offer. From camping and MTB displays to historical tours, art galleries, botanical gardens and thrilling experiences for adventures of all ages, there’s no shortage of excitement.

Ticket via Webtickets

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