Agriculture has changed dramatically over the past decades with the introduction of new technologies, mechanization, increased chemical use, specialization and government policies across the world that favoured maximising production. With food security high on every government agenda, we need to assess our capacity to maximise production without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.
A growing movement has emerged during the past two decades to question the role of the agricultural establishment in promoting practices that contribute to environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity. Today the conversation around sustainable agriculture is garnering increasing support and acceptance within mainstream agriculture. Not only does sustainable agriculture address many environmental and social concerns, but it offers innovative and economically viable opportunities for growers, labourers, consumers, policymakers and many other stakeholders in the food chain.
It is however without its challenges. Used as a buzz word in many platforms, sustainable agriculture needs to be redefined in the context of a struggling economy and environmental pressures that have led to severe droughts across the continent.
The African Agri Council in partnership with:
- Eastern Africa Grain Council (EAGC)
- Market Linkage Association (MLA)
Access Africa, is pleased to announce the African Sustainable Agriculture Summit 2016, taking place from 6 – 7 April 2016 in Johannesburg South Africa.
The Summit will feature prominent industry leaders and stakeholders including:
- MEC Lebogang Maile (Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, South Africa)
- Gerald Masila (East African Grain Council, Kenya)
- Jacqueline Mkindi (Horticultural Association and Agricultural Council of Tanzania (Tanzania)
- Motsepe Matlala (National African Farmers Union, South Africa)
- Johann F Kotzé (First National Bank, South Africa)
- Dr Thulasizwe Mkhabela (The Agribusiness Development Agency KZN, South Africa)
- Dr Kala Fleming (IBM Research – Africa, Kenya)
These industry leaders will discuss – at a deal level – different strategies for building a sustainable African agriculture industry.
The African Sustainable Agriculture Summit 2016 offers you an opportunity to discuss industry challenges, discover practical tools and network with high level industry stakeholders.
To download the brochure or for more information about the African Sustainable Agriculture Summit 2016 visit www.agricouncil.org or contact Manuel Singano on +27 21 700 4320
