Photos | Thousands flock to Nampo on first day

The first day of the Nampo Harvest Day kicked off properly on Tuesday with thousands of visitors, sometimes huge traffic jams and discussions that ranged from new technology to the tough economic times in which South African farmers find themselves.

Almost 16,000 visitors poured through the gates of Nampo Park outside Bothaville on the opening day, slightly less than last year’s 17,000 people.

(Photo: Christine Oelofse/Maroela Media)

However, organizers emphasized that the focus is not simply on visitor numbers, but on business opportunities and meaningful conversations.

“Exhibitors have given feedback that they are very satisfied with the business that has already been done. At the end of the day, it is not just about how many people walk through the gates, but about the business that is done here,” said Dr. Dirk Strydom, managing director of Nampo (Pty) Ltd., said.

“People come here to look for solutions, to see technology and to make decisions about their farms. Visitors continued to line up to attend exhibitions, demonstrations and networking events.”

The opening day also attracted 39 aircraft and 14 helicopters to Nampo Park’s own airfield.

Although the first day was characterized by the festive atmosphere and excitement that Nampo is known for, the discussions in the halls and conference rooms had a much more serious tone.

Under this year’s theme, “Resilience through innovation”, Grain SA has focused strongly on the increasing economic pressure that producers are under.

(Photo: Christine Oelofse/Maroela Media)

“We cannot separate sustainability from profitability,” said Richard Krige, chairman of Graan SA.

“If producers are not profitable, it slows down investment, succession planning becomes uncertain and food safety is put at risk. It is no longer just about individual farmers – it affects the country’s ability to feed itself.”

The sector urgently requires more predictable policy, stronger logistics systems, better market access and greater long-term investment security, says Krige.

“Resilience cannot be built on optimism alone. The sector needs practical solutions that help producers to remain competitive and profitable.”

‘We must be able to compete globally’

The pressure that producers are under was also highlighted during Grain SA’s strategic review session where Dr. Tobias Doyer, the CEO of Grain SA, warned that South African producers must increasingly compete with large international production areas.

“There is only one way we can remain globally competitive – and that is through better science, better technology and improved productivity.

“We can no longer rely on protection mechanisms alone. The future of South African agriculture will depend on how efficient and productive we can be.”

Doyer emphasized that South Africa must position itself as an export-driven grain economy, while at the same time investing in long-term productivity and technology.

Discussions throughout the day also focused on the need to move beyond simply exporting bulk grain. Among other things, there was talk about greater value addition, regional trade, animal protein, logistics reform and the development of a more diversified agricultural value chain.

Focus on practical solutions

Grain SA reaffirmed on the opening day that the organization remains actively involved in key issues affecting producers. These include issues around the diesel refund system for farmers, port and logistics efficiency, market access, export opportunities, regulatory certainty and the regulation of agricultural inputs, among others.

John Steenhuisen, the minister of agriculture, also took part in several discussions on Tuesday which revolved around practical solutions for the challenges the sector is currently struggling with.

Despite the difficult economic climate, the opening day was predominantly positive and solution-driven.

“Nampo is where farmers come together to confront difficult realities, share practical solutions and build confidence in the future of South African agriculture,” said Krige.

The Nampo Harvest Day runs until Friday, with numerous informative talks, new business opportunities, technology exhibitions and hands-on demonstrations still awaiting visitors.

(Photo: Graan SA/Facebook)