As South Africa’s potato industry prepares for a transformative future, Potatoes South Africa will introduce its vision for 2050 at the upcoming Seed Potato Grower’s Forum and Congress, themed “2050 is Now”. The event, supported by AECI Plant Health, promises to cover vital topics spanning the entire value chain, focusing on sustainable growth and innovation.
Potatoes SA’s Vision for 2050
Potatoes South Africa (PSA) is set to unveil an ambitious vision for the year 2050 during this year’s Seed Potato Grower’s Forum and Congress, scheduled for July 16 and 17 in Century City, Cape Town. This significant event, themed “2050 is Now”, will delve into the future of potato farming in South Africa, emphasizing sustainable practices, technological advancements, and economic growth.
A Sector Poised for Growth
The potato industry is a crucial component of South Africa’s agricultural sector. Employing approximately 55,000 people, the industry is vital for both local economies and the national market. The main potato-producing regions include Limpopo, the Free State, the Western Cape, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, each contributing significantly to the sector’s output.
In a landmark move, Potatoes SA and the Western Cape Department of Agriculture signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last year. This MoU is dedicated to fostering industry growth, enhancing economic development, and boosting employment opportunities within the potato sector. Willie Jacobs, CEO of Potatoes SA, highlighted the industry’s economic impact, noting its contribution of at least R6.6 billion to the national economy and its substantial share—30% to 50%—of the fresh produce market turnover.
AECI Plant Health’s Role
AECI Plant Health, a proud sponsor of the forum, plays a pivotal role in supporting this vision. With a range of innovative products and a team of knowledgeable crop advisors strategically located across the country, AECI Plant Health is well-equipped to assist farmers in achieving sustainable and profitable potato production. Their involvement underscores a commitment to advancing agricultural practices that align with the vision set forth by Potatoes SA.
The Future of Potato Farming
The “2050 is Now” theme reflects an urgent call to action, recognizing the need for immediate steps towards a sustainable future. This vision encompasses various aspects of potato farming, including the adoption of new technologies, climate-resilient farming practices, and enhanced market strategies to ensure the industry’s resilience and growth. The Seed Potato Grower’s Forum and Congress will provide a platform for industry leaders, farmers, agronomists, and scientists to collaborate and exchange ideas, driving forward the innovations necessary for the sector’s future.
