Cape Town:The Western Cape government has pledged its continued support for the growth of the agricultural sector through strategic investments, innovations, skills development, export promotion, and climate resilience initiatives.
According to South African Government News Agency, Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Ivan Meyer, made this commitment at the 31st Conference of the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (RASC) held in Cape Town from November 1 to 5, 2026.
Meyer emphasized the conference as a vital platform for strengthening international agricultural partnerships and advancing innovation, sustainability, and food security. He welcomed delegates from across the Commonwealth, including RASC chairperson Sir Nicholas Bacon, and highlighted the critical role of agriculture in connecting people, economies, and nations, while also driving economic growth, employment, exports, and rural development.
Meyer acknowledged the challenges facing the global agricultural sector, such as climate change, water scarcity, rising input costs, and supply chain disruptions. However, he pointed out that technological advances, precision agriculture, and climate-smart farming offer significant opportunities to enhance the sector's resilience and competitiveness.
The MEC also stressed the importance of collaboration across borders and sectors, noting the shared goals within the Commonwealth's agricultural community of improving livelihoods, protecting natural resources, and building a sustainable future. He urged delegates to utilize agriculture as a catalyst for unity and cooperation amidst global divisions.
Meyer commended Agri-Expo President Chris Fourie and the organization for their significant contributions to agricultural development, innovation, and market access in the Western Cape. He affirmed the province's dedication to creating an enabling environment for agricultural growth, prioritizing export support, skills development, climate resilience, and investment in innovation.
The conference served as a gathering for agricultural leaders, researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across the Commonwealth to explore practical solutions for strengthening food systems, improving rural economies, and advancing sustainable agricultural development.