This year’s Nation in Conversation at Nampo Bothaville asks: how does South African agriculture remain competitive? (Archive photo: Janice du Plessis / Maroela Media)
While South African producers are increasingly under pressure due to rising input costs, uncertain market conditions and global trade pressures, this year’s Nation in Conversation (NIG) at Nampo Bothaville will focus on one core question: How does resilience become a strategic advantage rather than simply a survival technique?
The popular discussion series, which is supported by, among others, Graan SA, Senwes and Nedbank, returns to Nampo in May with a program that examines the agricultural sector’s most pressing challenges.
“Nation in Conversation has always been about bringing the right voices together in the same room to face the realities that shape agriculture and our economy.
“This year’s theme reflects a fundamental shift where resilience in the industry is no longer just about enduring challenges, but using them to build stronger systems, better decisions and a more competitive agricultural sector,” says Francois Redelinghuys, corporate marketing manager at Senwes.
This year’s program brings together experts, policy makers and producers to discuss the most pressing issues in the value chain. From the economic realities of farming to the strategic management of global trade wars, NIG provides a platform where dialogue is transformed into action.
One of the discussions that will probably attract a lot of attention is the session “To farm or not to farm”, in which the financial sustainability of modern farming is examined. The theme of water management will also resonate strongly at a time when producers are increasingly grappling with climate pressure and competition for resources.
The forum ends with a discussion on trade wars and tariffs, and how South Africa can position itself competitively in an increasingly fragmented world market. This comes at a time when export markets and international trade relations are exerting greater influence on local agriculture.
Nation in Conversation takes place from 12 to 15 May during Nampo Bothaville. Some of the highlights in this year’s program include:
- Tuesday, May 12: To farm or not to farm – Analysis of the economic reality of increasing pressure on margins.
- Tuesday, May 12: Grain SA sponsored session – Co-creating the AgTech workforce: Modern skills and real jobs.
- Wednesday, 13 May: Foot-and-mouth disease and biosecurity – Strengthening confidence in South Africa’s animal health systems.
- Wednesday, May 13: Water resources – Managing challenges around the competition for every drop.
- Wednesday, May 13: Biofuels – Exploring the future of energy security on the farm.
- Thursday, May 14: From narrative to action – Converting sector influence into policy outcomes.
- Friday, 15 May: Trade Wars and Tariffs – Positioning South Africa to remain competitive in fragmented markets.
For the full program and to book your place, visit the Nation in Conversation at www.nationinconversation.co.za.