The AgriSA Atlas Congress in Pretoria placed focus on resilience, collaboration, and practical responses to the country's agricultural challenges. With a new president elected, the organisation reaffirmed its role in policy advocacy and partnerships that strengthen the rural economy.
Willem de Chavonnes Vrugt elected as Agri SA president
Willem de Chavonnes Vrugt was elected as Agri SA president, succeeding Jaco Minnaar. During the congress, he outlined the organisation's priorities for the coming year, including on-farm margins, climate change, rural safety, labour policies, water management, rural roads, and land reform.
He noted that agriculture operates beyond commodity prices and cannot pass rising costs to consumers. Agri SA will continue to call for fairer tariff structures and expanded market access.
Focus on climate adaptation and rural safety
Climate adaptation was a central theme, with speakers highlighting the need for practical strategies and financing. Janse Rabie, head of Agri SA's Natural Resources Centre of Excellence, said, "Our message to government is clear: we don't just need targets, we need tools."
De Chavonnes Vrugt confirmed Agri SA's support for South Africa's commitments under the Paris Agreement but cautioned that the sector cannot bear unrealistic decarbonisation expectations. "We are advocating for a pragmatic, well-financed transition that protects food security and rural livelihoods, and recognises farmers as partners in the journey to net zero."
Rural safety also remained a concern. De Chavonnes Vrugt said it was about more than crime prevention, describing it as a matter of human dignity and stability. Agri SA supports the review and implementation of the National Rural Safety Strategy.
Policy, water, and infrastructure pressures
Labour challenges continue to affect the sector, with rising minimum wages and skills shortages adding pressure. Agri SA will continue to advocate for balanced labour policies that protect workers and support enterprises, including vocational training and clearer migration frameworks.
Water scarcity and failing infrastructure remain constraints to growth. De Chavonnes Vrugt emphasised that the new water pricing strategy should "reflect agricultural realities and protect food security while promoting sustainability." He also urged that the shift to compulsory licensing be implemented carefully and transparently.
About 60% of South Africa's rural roads are in poor or very poor condition. "These roads are the lifeline of rural communities. Together with Agbiz, we are working with the Department of Transport, SANRAL, and the Department of Public Works to secure investment in rural road networks," said De Chavonnes Vrugt.
Land reform and future direction
Agri SA reaffirmed support for market-driven land reform and private property rights while opposing expropriation without compensation. The organisation continues to call for the release of 2,5 million hectares of state-held land to boost productivity and investment.
De Chavonnes Vrugt concluded, "When agriculture grows, South Africa grows. Our shared goal is to empower every farmer to innovate, reinvest, and build a sustainable future."
Source: Farmer's Weekly
