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Women in SA Mining share their leadership tips and insight on change in the sector

Pinpoint Stewards’ annual Women & Leadership in Mining Conference will be taking place on 28 & 29 August in Sandton, Johannesburg. Join one of the biggest gatherings of women in mining, during a two-day conference to strategize and look at ways to include more women in the sector at a faster pace. 

Here are some of the speakers sharing their insight and leadership tips:

 Prioritize empathy and active listening to build trust and drive growth.

Mpho Nyarela, WIM Chairperson Limpopo RTF Exco Member, Palabora Mining Company
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I chose a career in mining because I was drawn to the challenges and opportunities the industry presents. Mining is a dynamic sector with significant impact on economies and societies. The opportunity to work in diverse environments, from remote sites to corporate offices, and the potential to drive innovation and sustainable practices were key motivators for me. Additionally, the ability to contribute to an industry that is fundamental to global development and technological advancement was a strong appeal.

One leadership tip

One essential leadership tip is to prioritize empathy and active listening. Understanding the perspectives and needs of people fosters a supportive and collaborative environment. It builds trust and empowers individuals to contribute their best, driving both personal and organizational growth. In an industry like mining, where safety and wellbeing are paramount, showing genuine concern for people within and outside your team’s welfare can significantly enhance morale and productivity.

What do you like most about your job?

What I like most about my job is the variety and the opportunity to make a tangible impact. Whether it’s solving complex technical challenges, leading initiatives/projects that enhance safety and efficiency, or mentoring the next generation of professionals, especially women each day brings new and rewarding experiences. The sense of accomplishment from seeing projects through from conception to completion and knowing that my work contributes to the broader community and industry is incredibly fulfilling.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

I would like to see a stronger focus on diversity and inclusion within the mining sector. This includes not only gender diversity but also embracing different backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Increasing representation at all levels, from entry-level positions to executive leadership, can drive innovation and improve decision-making. Additionally, I advocate for enhanced mental health support and wellbeing programs, recognizing that a healthy and supported workforce is crucial for both safety and productivity. We are not superhuman and must not try to be. Finally, greater emphasis on sustainability and responsible environmental practices is essential to ensure the long-term viability of the industry and its positive impact on communities and ecosystems.

Being open about your own challenges and uncertainties.

Bontle Mtshengu, Founder & Co-Owner, Quantum Leap Smart Engineering
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I chose mining because it was predominantly male dominated, seeing an opportunity to help change that dynamic. Mining companies were starting to focus on improving gender diversity and fostering inclusive workplaces, making the industry appealing to women seeking a progressive and supportive environment. Moreover, my father worked as a truck operator in a Northern Cape mine. Growing up, I was in an environment where many mine workers lacked formal education, leading us kids to believe that qualifications weren’t essential for mining jobs. I wanted to prove that this was not true. My dad’s stories sparked my interest. Given a choice between Eskom and mining, I chose mining.

One leadership tip?

Actively listen to your team while embracing vulnerability. This means giving your full attention when someone is speaking and providing thoughtful and meaningful feedback. Additionally, being open about your own challenges and uncertainties can encourage an environment of trust and respect. When leaders show vulnerability, it encourages team members to be honest and open, leading to better communication, stronger relationships, and a more cohesive and resilient team.

What do you like most about your job?

My capacity to offer a unique perspective as a female and challenge norms in the workplace. I also find great satisfaction in the collaborative nature of my work environment. Engaging with a diverse team of skilled professionals enables me to gain insights from various viewpoints and continuously improve.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

I hope for ongoing advancements in gender diversity, ensuring that women have ample opportunities and support across all levels, and fostering a culture where women uplift and empower one another.

Delegating responsibilities to draw on team strength.

Kristell Holtzhausen, previous Company Secretary, African Rainbow Minerals Ltd, Ferrous Division (Assmang) and Independent Governance Consultant to various mining companies.
Why did you choose a career in mining?

The Mining sector is an ever-evolving sector, with new technologies and locations, emphasising going green. It has also opened itself up for gender equality and allowed females to enter the man’s world. This empowers females and equips us with the knowledge to assist our children, tomorrow’s generation, to explore a wider range of potential careers. The ripple effect…

One leadership tip?

To create a more adaptable workforce, better equipped to navigate challenges and foster sustainable growth by delegating responsibilities to team members that draw on their strengths. 

What do you like most about your job?

As a company secretary, you are fortunate to know all the operations and that empowers you to assist and protect your board being the gatekeeper of the larger organisation. 

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

Improved support from the Government, especially in the turnaround time with service delivery. However that being said, the emphasis should be on protecting Mother Earth to provide for future generations and by saying this increased focus should be placed on proper rehabilitation of mined areas and “green” mining. 

Make people the first priority.

Nandi Sibanyoni, Executive Head, SHE Anglo American-Kumba iron Ore
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I grew up in a mining town, so my curiosity about mining started from a young age.  When I learnt more about what mining does, I wanted to be a change agent to advocate for sustainable, and safer mining.

One leadership tip?

A leader without a heart, is the worst enemy of any organisation, make people the first priority.

What do you like most about your job?

It allows me to connect with different people from different spheres. I am making meaningful contribution of keeping people healthy and safe, whilst protecting the natural environment.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

No more fatalities and injuries, no ton is worth producing if it has blood in it.

Other speakers you will meet inlcude:
  • Ofentse Debete, Section Manager Mining, Goldfields
  • Nozipho Dlamini, Mine Manager, Thungela Resources
  • Cindy Mabala, Rock Engineering, Officer Impala Platinum Ltd
  • Cynthia Muvhango, Mine Engineer, Foskor Pty Ltd
  • Dr Adwoa Boaduo Issaka, Unit Manager Safety, Goldfields
  • Hendrietta Sarile, Environmental Coordinator: Systems And Compliance Exploration, Ivanplats
  • Nomvula Ngcobo, Engineering Manager – Asset & Maintenance Management, Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd
Click here to explore leadership tips and insight from the speakers mentioned above.

For more information, a programme and beneficiaries contact the organisers on info@pinpointstewards.co.za. Register online before 1 August for reserved seating and women’s month welcome gift for you and your team at www.pinpointstewards.co.za

30 years of hope and change

City of Johannesburg. ©South African Tourism

By Mawande Ndongeni*

To those born after 1994, the impact and meaning of our democracy are very different to those who lived during apartheid and through democratic change. Life as we now know it was very different before 1994 and things we now take for granted were only provided to a select few.

For example, the range of social programmes and services which have been implemented, such as family planning, and pre- and post-natal care interventions have resulted in a notable decrease in infant mortality. Our funding in education has changed lives and brought hope and prosperity. While we can easily quantify the number of people who have benefited from these services, it is impossible to measure the profound impact these programmes have had on ordinary people.

Our journey since 1994 has proved that we are a nation that inspires hope for a better tomorrow.

Dressed in the Springbok jersey and donning the Springbok cap, former president Nelson Mandela waves to the crowd before kick-off at the 1995 Rugby World Cup. ©South African Tourism

On the international front, our nation is committed to improving humanity and the lives of people. We are renowned for our diplomatic endeavours in resolving disputes through dialogue, as well as our participation in peacekeeping missions. Furthermore, South Africa has extended aid and assistance to those affected by natural disasters and unforeseen events around the globe.

Despite our many successes since 1994, we are not immune to the challenges faced in the world. The country is currently grappling with economic hardships caused by the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape and armed conflicts that have impacted global trade and economies across the world.

Despite these setbacks, South Africa remains committed to finding long-term solutions, securing a brighter future for future generations and improving relations with its international partners.

In terms of economic trade, South Africa achieved a momentous feat in 2024 by successfully sending its first shipment of products under the African Continental Free Trade Area. This historic agreement has established the most extensive free trade region in the world and is a significant step towards achieving Agenda 2063.

©South African Tourism

The potential of South African goods and services reaching a market of over one-billion individuals is enormous and could revolutionise the economic landscape for South Africans, across the continent and the world. From raw and unprocessed resources to advanced and contemporary products and services, this is a crucial catalyst for South Africa’s growth and progress.

Our journey since 1994 has proved that we are a nation that inspires hope for a better tomorrow. We value our people and we strive for equal opportunities, prosperity and individual dignity. We have zero tolerance for discrimination, sexism, racism and state-sponsored violence, things that were a norm in the past.

Our unique experiences and diversity make us stronger as we work to build and fortify our nation.

*Mawande Ndongeni works at GCIS: Programme Support.

Air Products’ continued efforts to uplift education in the Chatsworth community

Crestview Primary School teachers and principal, Mr Gounden, (centre back), Arthi Govender (front centre) and Air Products representatives at the recent event.

Corporate Social Investment (CSI), with a specific focus on youth and education, is a key focus for industrial gas company, Air Products, and they pride themselves in the work they do in the communities in which they operate.

There are currently a number of CSI initiatives in the KwaZulu-Natal area where Air Products is involved, however, following numerous requests for assistance at schools in the Chatsworth area, the CSI Committee allocated funds for projects at two primary schools in this area. The completion of the most recent projects at the two schools in Chatsworth were recently celebrated.

Crestview Primary School’s library, which had not been used for some time, was refurbished and equipment was donated to enhance the learners’ experience in the library and provide the teachers with access to modern technology to use to teach. At Highlands Primary School, funds were provided to refurbish the staff room, thereby providing an area where the teachers can host meetings, do their planning and take much needed breaks away from their classrooms. This school also received equipment for educational purposes.

Focusing on building long-term relationships with CSI beneficiaries, these projects are an extension of the wash stations that were built, the bathrooms renovations and the staffroom refurbishment that was completed at the respective schools last year. Both these schools have also been included in the company’s national flagship project, WitnessHappiness, which is aimed at improving the level of education at early childhood development (ECD) centres.

Arthi Govender from Air Products and Mr Bharath from Highlands Primary School at the opening of the revamped staff room.

Arthi Govender, Chairperson of Air Products’ CSI committee, comments on their involvement with the schools in Chatsworth: “It is heartwarming to see how well our assistance was received by the principals, teachers and learners. Crestview and Highlands Primary Schools cater for many learners who reside in impoverished surrounding areas whose parents are unable to pay school fees and the reality is that these schools are in need of funds and much needed educational tools, and we are happy to have been able to assist and make a difference.”

For more information about Air Products, visit https://airproducts.co.za/

8 Women in SA Mining share their leadership tips and insight on change in the sector

Pinpoint Stewards’ annual Women & Leadership in Mining Conference will be taking place on 28 & 29 August in Sandton. Join one of the biggest gatherings of women in mining, during a two-day conference to strategize and look at ways to include more women in the sector at a faster pace. 

Here are some of the speakers sharing their insight and leadership tips:

Show humility and compassion

Cynthia Muvhango, Mine Engineer, Foskor
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I have always been passionate about earth science in general so when it came time to select a course to study in University the answer seemed logical to me. I studied towards a Geology Degree which could’ve lead me towards Academia but luckily the opportunity to get a bursary and also get work exposure in a mine was afforded to me.

One Leadership tip?

Above all a leader should always be able to show humility and compassion to the people he/she is leading.

What do you like most about your job?

The constant variability that comes with the operations and the ability to continuously learn with each new challenge brought fourth.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

Silo-thinking mentality and gate keeping within the industry. Allow people who are interested and have the aptitude to do so learn as much as they possibly can without the stereotypical thoughts driving the narrative.

Ensure that your team is so capable and confident that you are no longer needed

Dr Adwoa Boaduo Issaka, Unit Manager: Safety, Goldfields
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I chose a career in mining because I wanted to contribute to making a positive difference in the lives of people. I am passionate about the significant impact that mining can have on communities, and I wanted to be part of that positive change.

One Leadership tip?

To me, leadership is like captaining a vessel, such as a ship. It should be selfless and focused on making both the initiative and the people involved thrive. I always say that with or without the leader, the ship must sail. In fact, it should sail even better without you. As a leader, you should ensure that your team is so capable and confident that you are no longer needed. That is my leadership tip.

What do you like most about your job?

The opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. Contributing towards safe mining at a mine that has such a positive economic impact on the lives of many people is incredibly rewarding. On the technical side I enjoy the “deep end nature” of my work; it’s very challenging and brings new learnings every day. I love the abundance of learning opportunities it provides.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?   

I would like to see the South African mining sector become more technologically advanced, focusing on working smarter rather than harder. By integrating AI and machine learning, we can leverage our workforce’s skills more effectively, moving people from the workface to control rooms where they can strategize and innovate, while letting machines handle the physical work. I believe that this shift will make mines safer, improve efficiency, and create a more skilled and gender diverse workforce. Additionally, it could unlock mineral resources that are currently too difficult, dangerous, or uneconomic to mine.

Lead with purpose and leave no one behind

Hendrietta Sarile, Environmental Coordinator: Systems and Compliance Exploration, Ivanplats
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I chose a career in mining because I was born in a mining town and grew up understanding its vital role in our lives. Mining is one industry in need of most transformation, and I want to be part of that transition. I thrive in the challenging mining environment and absolutely believe that when done right, mining has the potential to change the world for the better.

One Leadership tip?

Lead with a Purpose! As Toni Morrison wisely said Make a difference about something other than yourselves. When we lead with purpose, we commit to leaving no one behind, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

What do you like most about your job?

Every day, I have the opportunity to influence others to do the right thing for our planet and future generations. While it was great working as a geologist my love and concern for the well-being of the planet and the people who inherit the planet; led me to where I am now—environmental leadership space. This transition was fuelled by my profound connection to both humanity and the natural world, a desire to bridge the gap between process and preservation.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

I hope to see mining industry where systems adoption revolutionizes mining processes, enabling hybrid work arrangements, flexibility, and more family-friendly rosters. Make mining adaptable and less old-school. As a woman in mining, I advocate for a culture of sisterhood –  I’d like to see more solidarity among women in the mining industry, acknowledging that we are a minority here.

Lead oneself before leading others

Nomvula Ngcobo, Engineering Manager – Asset & Maintenance Management, Central – Randfontein, Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd
Why did you choose a career in mining?

I chose a career in mining because I enjoyed mathematics and science during my school years. I believed that I would excel in and enjoy working in a technical and innovative environment.

One Leadership Tip?

A key leadership tip is that leadership starts with leading oneself before leading others.

What do you like most about your job?

What I like most about my job is its dynamic nature; it is not routine and boring. There are numerous opportunities to be creative.  Additionally, I enjoy that it involves working with people.

What would you like to see change in the mining sector?

I would like to see the mining sector undergo transformation by changing the environment to require less hard labour through the implementation of advanced technology. Achieving this transformation will make the mining industry attractive and easy for women to thrive.

Other speakers you will meet inlcude:
  • Ofentse Debete, Section Manager Mining, Goldfields,
  • Nozipho Dlamini, Mine Manager, Thungela Resources,
  • Nandi Sibanyoni, Executive Head, She, Anglo American-Kumba Iron Ore
  • Cindy Mabala, Rock Engineering, Officer Impala Platinum Ltd
  • Bontle Mtshengu, Founder & Co-Owner, Quantum Leap Smart Engineering
  • Kristell Holtzhausen, Company Secretary, Previously African Rainbow Minerals Ltd – Ferrous Division (Assmang)
  • Mpho Nyarela, Wim Chairperson, Limpopo Rtf Exco Member, Palabora Mining Company
Click here to read the second part of these interviews and explore some of the above mentioned speakers’ insights and leadership tips.

Meet these women and your peers at one of the biggest gatherings of women in industry and share experiences and discuss strategies to ensure more women are included within the sector. Contact the organisers on info@pinpointstewards.co.za

Register before 1 August for reserved seating and women’s month welcome gift for you and your team.

Educating the maritime industry on the cyber-‘icebergs’

Opinion piece by Prof Rossouw von Solms from the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI)

Cyberthreats, or as I refer to them in the maritime context, cyber-‘icebergs’, are ever-present. Such threats encompass several malicious activities that can potentially affect all computer systems, networks and associated data. Such activities may be intentional or unintentional and may originate from seafarers on board or off-board attackers.

Unintentional malicious activities usually stem from negligence, ignorance or a lack of education on the part of a legitimate user, while intentionally malicious activities generally stem from some form of cyberattack by a malicious party. Cyberattacks may come in the form of malware, phishing emails, social engineering, honey traps and many more. In all cases, the aim of the cyberattack is to breach system security and achieve certain goals, ranging from ransomware, denial of service, jamming signals, among other. Successful cyberattacks can lead to financial losses, disruption of services, and loss of GPS signals, among other things.

The introduction of sound cybersecurity measures to protect on-board IT systems from being breached by malicious, intentional cyberattacks is one of management’s main responsibilities. However, many system security breaches are facilitated by the negligence or ignorance of legitimate seafarers, owing to a lack of proper education. Thus, seafarers may unintentionally render cybersecurity vulnerable, eventually enabling a successful cyberattack that is obviously detrimental to the vessel, its owner, and the freight and the people on board.

…many system security breaches are facilitated by the negligence or ignorance of legitimate seafarers, owing to a lack of proper education.

On the evening of 14 April 1912, the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic hit an iceberg and sank. Word has it that two other ships sent messages to the Titanic warning it about icebergs. Apparently, radio operators were so busy relaying passengers’ messages to shore that the one warning of a huge iceberg in the vicinity was never conveyed to the bridge. Another radio operator reprimanded another ship for disturbing him as he was busy handling passengers’ messages.

It is clear that human error, ignorance and incompetence can lead to breaches in system security that may eventually lead to disaster. The case of the Titanic highlights that a vessel’s communication channel(s) should ideally not be used for both operational functions and non-critical, social purposes.

Seafarers are generally trained to conduct one or two specific jobs whilst at sea, most of which generate electronic data that is captured, communicated and stored by means of some system; however, these seafarers are not usually fully educated or trained to do so in a cybersecure manner. Therefore, the ignorance or incompetence to securely operate cyber-oriented systems is a huge vulnerability for cybersecurity and eventually the vessel.

Further, the fact that seafarers, when off duty, in many cases use the same communication link for social entertainment, recreation and communication as the vessel uses for critical operation tasks, like navigation, collecting weather information, etc. makes that communication channel prone to cyberattacks.

The bottom line is, ensure that seafarers are all properly cybersecurity aware and competent. If not, seafarers can be seen as part of the cyber-iceberg.

Eastern Cape Export Symposium and Exhibition 2024

Think Eastern Cape… Think Opportunities!

The 6th edition of this annual key economic intervention focusses a spotlight on exporting and exports from the Eastern Cape. The Eastern Cape Export Symposium and Exhibition is scheduled to take place on 21-22 August 2024 at the ELICC in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

The region’s powerful contribution to global production in several sectors, including automotive and agriculture, attached to its two Special Economic Zones and three ports, brings to life the 2024 theme: Think Eastern Cape … Think Opportunities.

The Eastern Cape Export Symposium is part of the Eastern Cape Development Corporation’s commitment to grow the province’s significant contribution to global markets.

It brings together not only current and new local exporters but also international trade partners, trade policy experts, government support agencies, financiers, logistics and infrastructure role-players, under one roof.

More than 70 distinguished speakers, including leading trade specialists from various sectors such as automotive, agriculture, renewable energy/environmental products, and natural fibers (including hemp and cannabis), along with regional and national trade policy-makers, will unpack opportunities in these sectors over two days, largely in panel discussion format.

Find out more here: https://www.ecexportsymposium.co.za/

The second major focus of the conference, drawing over 200 delegates, is cutting-edge, in-depth analysis of developments and opportunity presented by South Africa’s international trade agreements, including an enlarged BRICS, AGOA, EU and trading under AfCFTA.

Sixty organisations, both exporters and export development agencies will physically exhibit at the symposium. Exhibitors will represent several of the Eastern Cape’s priority sectors, including but not limited to automotive, agro-processing and products and services related to the circular economy and renewables.

The event to be held in-person will connect these role-players through an exhibition, two-day, short-plenary, workshops, match-making and networking opportunities to achieve two overarching objectives:

  • Promoting exports and supply networks (via access to markets, resources and current research)
  • Synergising resources and focus of a wide range of export-related role-players that optimises export efficiency and economic growth.

All activities will be hosted in-person, however, the plenary sessions will also be livestreamed.

To find out more and register, visit https://www.ecexportsymposium.co.za/

Township Economies Conference & Expo proudly announces Takealot as Headline Sponsor

The Township Economies Conference & Expo is thrilled to announce a significant partnership with Takealot, South Africa’s leading online retailer, who has come on board as our Main Sponsor. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing mission to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth within township communities.

Takealot’s sponsorship underscores its deep commitment to supporting small businesses and promoting economic development in underserved areas. As the Main Sponsor, Takealot will play an instrumental role in expanding the reach and impact of the Township Economies Conference & Expo, ensuring it remains a premier platform for innovation, entrepreneurial business development and market growth.

Township economies in South Africa are experiencing notable business growth, with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) playing a critical role. Recent statistics indicate that township-based SMEs contribute significantly to the country’s GDP, generating billions in revenue annually and providing employment opportunities for millions. The entrepreneurial spirit within these communities drives innovation and resilience, with many businesses leveraging digital platforms and e-commerce to expand their reach and market presence. This growth underscores the potential of township economies to be major contributors to South Africa’s overall economic development.

This year’s conference promises compelling features designed to inspire and empower attendees. Notable entrepreneurs and industry leaders will deliver keynote speeches, sharing their experiences and insights on building successful businesses within township economies. These inspiring sessions motivate attendees to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations and overcome challenges.

Engaging panel discussions will address crucial topics such as digital transformation, access to finance, and sustainable business practices. Experts from various sectors will provide valuable perspectives, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of today’s business environment.

The expo showcase will feature innovative products, services, and solutions tailored to the needs of township businesses. This provides a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with suppliers, investors, and potential partners, fostering new business relationships and opportunities.

Additionally, practical workshops and training sessions will be conducted to equip attendees with essential skills and knowledge. These sessions aim to enhance the competitiveness of township businesses, ensuring they are well-positioned to thrive in the market.

The Takealot Township Economies Conference & Expo is a must-attend event for entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, investors, and community members committed to unlocking the potential of township economies and driving sustainable growth. Your participation will empower local communities, foster innovation, and create new opportunities for economic development.

The event will occur on 30 – 31 July 2024 at Emperors Palace in the City of Ekurhuleni.

Empowering Township Economies Together. Join Us at the Township Economies Conference & Expo!

Go to: https://townshipeconomies.co.za/

Mohair’s prospects are looking up

What are the main planks of SAMIL’s sustainability policy?

Our core values are honesty and integrity which translate into looking after our small piece of the world and everything and everybody in it. To this end, everything we do is questioned as to whether it will have a detrimental effect on our environment or our people, whether it be how we farm our goats on the land or how we process the material in our factories.

We only use chemicals that have been certified by OEKO-TEX or an equivalent certification proving that they cause no harm to humans or animals. We have created a work environment on our farms and in our factories and offices where all employees are viewed as assets and are treated as such.

SAMIL CEO Michael Brosnahan
How can more jobs be created in the mohair industry?

More jobs in the mohair industry can really only be created by creating awareness of this wonderful fibre around the world. The price of mohair limits its general use so the main end uses are high-fashion items with exclusive big-name brands.

Are your farmers working on projects to protect the land?

Our farmers are not working on “projects” to protect the land – this is a constant part of everyday life on the farms.

The farmer needs to protect his livelihood, not just for himself but for his children and his children’s children. Many of our Angora farmers have been farming goats on the land for more than 100 years, some into the second and third generation.

What is the Responsible Mohair Standard? Has its introduction had the desired effect?

The Responsible Mohair Standard or RMS is an international voluntary standard that addresses animal welfare on goat farms as well as managing the “chain of custody” of mohair from the certified farms through to the final products purchased by the consumer. The key values of RMS are:

    • protecting animal welfare
    • regenerative agriculture
    • social responsibility
    • traceability

Its introduction has definitely had the desired effect – mohair is once again globally desired which helps to protect the more than 30 000 people employed in the industry in South Africa.

Do you see growth prospects for mohair globally?

There are no doubt growth prospects for mohair globally as it is such a versatile fibre. We have to strike a balance, though, between the price that the farmer needs to ensure his mohair clip is an economic product to farm and the price that the consumer is prepared to pay for mohair products in the marketplace.

 Find out more about SAMIL, visit: https://www.samil.co.za/

Africa aims for food security and global market share: Collaboration paves the way

A wave of optimism is washing over Africa’s agricultural landscape. The recently concluded Market Access Africa 2024 conference served as a powerful testament to the continent’s unwavering commitment to achieving food security and becoming a major player in the global agricultural market.

The conference, brimming with a collaborative spirit and a shared vision, underscored Africa’s immense potential. With a youthful workforce, abundant natural resources, and a growing embrace of technology, the continent is uniquely positioned to revolutionize its agricultural sector.

But achieving this revolution hinges on a three-pronged approach:
  • Prioritizing productivity: Boosting crop yields and overall agricultural output is paramount. This requires investments in innovative farming techniques, improved access to fertilizers and seeds, and a focus on sustainable practices.
  • Building robust supply chains: Efficient and reliable supply chains are crucial for minimizing post-harvest losses and ensuring food reaches consumers effectively. Investments in storage facilities, transportation networks, and digital solutions for tracking and management will be essential.
  • Fostering regional cooperation: Collaboration across borders is key to knowledge sharing, resource optimization, and tackling challenges like cross-border trade barriers. Initiatives like the West Africa Agriculture Productivity Program serve as a model for future partnerships.

By prioritizing these areas, Africa can not only achieve self-sufficiency but also transition from a food importer to a major exporter. This agricultural revolution promises to be a catalyst for economic development across the continent. Increased agricultural output will create jobs, generate export revenue, and contribute to poverty reduction.

The collaborative spirit witnessed at Market Access Africa 2024 offers a glimpse into a brighter future for Africa.

By leveraging its strengths, fostering partnerships, and implementing strategic solutions, Africa can transform its agricultural sector, ensure food security for its people, and claim its rightful place on the global agricultural stage. This revolution has the potential to unlock prosperity for millions across Africa, paving the way for a more secure and sustainable future.

Find out more about Market Access Africa (MAA): https://access-africa.com/

 

30 years into democracy, how has SA’s agricultural sector performed?

By Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of SA and author of A Country of Two Agricultures. 

There are divergent views about the effectiveness and extent to which South Africa’s agricultural policies have been implemented. Regardless of how experts feel about the capacity of the state and the policy stance of the South African government since the dawn of democracy, the one undeniable fact is that the sector has grown tremendously. Data from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development show that domestic agricultural output in 2022/23 was twice as much as in 1993/94.

Whether this growth has been inclusive and transformative is a question I will return to later in this piece. For now, it’s important to emphasise the growth of the industry and the drivers of its expansion. Significantly, this expansion was not driven by a few sectors but has been widespread – livestock, horticulture and field crops have all seen strong growth over this period.

Of course, the production of some crops, most notably wheat and sorghum, has declined over time. This, however, had a lot to do with changes in agro-ecological conditions and falling demand in the case of sorghum, not policies.

These higher production levels have been underpinned, mainly by adopting new production technologies, better farming skills, growing demand (locally and globally) and progressive trade policy. The private sector has played a major role in this progress.

I use the words “progressive trade policy” solely to highlight South Africa’s standing in global agriculture. South Africa was the world’s 32nd-largest agricultural exporter in 2022 – the only African country within the world’s top 40 largest agricultural exporters in value terms. This is according to data from Trade Map.

This was made possible by a range of international trading agreements the South African government secured over the past decades. Africa and Europe now account for about two-thirds of South Africa’s agricultural exports. Asia is also an important market for South Africa’s agricultural exports.

The agricultural subsectors that have primarily enjoyed this progress in exports are horticulture (and wine) and grains.

Aside from the exports

The increase in agricultural output is why South Africa is now ranked 59th out of 113 countries in the Global Food Security Index, making it the most food-secure in Sub-Saharan Africa. I recognise that boasting about this ranking when millions of South Africans go to bed hungry every day may ring hollow, as I pointed out at a few presentations where I cited these statistics.

However, it is essential to note that the lack of access to food that most South Africans face is due to the income poverty challenge rather than lack of availability due to low agricultural output, as is the case in other parts of Africa. We need to ensure that there is employment and that households have sufficient income.

We must remember that the Global Food Security Index balances the four elements (affordability, availability, quality and safety) to arrive at a rating and covers matters at a broad national level. In this regard, South Africa produces enough food to fill the shelves of supermarkets with high-quality products but still has a long way to go in addressing household food insecurity, as many households cannot afford the food that is available in a way that meets their nutritional demands. This is a topic for another day.

Transformation

Earlier on, I noted that the consensus on agricultural growth is at variance with the diversity and sometimes polarising views around the extent to which this growth is sustainable, inclusive and transformative. The gains we’ve seen in agricultural production over the past two decades have not been equitably distributed across the agricultural industry. Specifically, the growth in the agricultural sector has been restricted to organised commercial agriculture, sometimes at the expense of a distinct but heterogeneous cohort of farmers in South Africa.

As I argued in my recent book, A Country of Two Agricultures, “Nearly three decades after the dawn of democracy, South Africa has remained a country of ‘two agricultures’. On the one hand, we have a subsistence, primarily non-commercial and black farming segment; on the other, we have predominantly commercial and white farmers.”

The book adds, “The democratic government’s corrective policies and programmes to unify the sector and build an inclusive agricultural economy have suffered failures since 1994. The private sector has also not provided many successful partnership programmes to foster the inclusion of black farmers in commercial production at scale.

“It is no surprise that institutions such as the National Agricultural Marketing Council estimate that black farmers account for less than 10% on average of commercial agricultural production in South Africa. This lacklustre performance by black farmers in commercial agriculture cannot be blamed solely on historical legacies.”

While this paints a bleak picture of transformation in the agricultural sector, what we can also not ignore is the anecdotal evidence pointing to the rise of black farmers in some corners of South Africa. We see this in field crops, horticulture and livestock in the Free State, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and other regions.

Employment

Even with the adoption of technology that catalyses agricultural productivity improvements, employment in South Africa’s agriculture industry has remained robust. For example, about 922 000 people were employed in the industry in 1994, according to data from Statistics South Africa. This is both seasonal and permanent labour. While the share of seasonal and regular labour changed over time, the broad conditions remained vibrant. In the third quarter of 2023, about 956 000 people were working in primary agriculture, a 4% increase from 1994.

…what we can also not ignore is the anecdotal evidence pointing to the rise of black farmers in some corners of South Africa. We see this in field crops, horticulture and livestock in the Free State, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and other regions.

As South Africa moves forward, let’s always be mindful of the progress that has been made in boosting our agricultural fortunes. And in the quest to grow and be more inclusive, we should be vigilant of the unintended consequences of the policies we seek to implement. Equally, we must never be complacent with the dualism we continue to see in South Africa’s agricultural sector.

The task, then, is how to grow South Africa’s agricultural sector more inclusively and transformatively.

This will need the private sector (organised agriculture groups and agribusinesses, etc.) and the government to craft a common vision for the sector with clear rules of engagement and monitoring systems. This can build on the work of the National Development Plan (Chapter Six to be specific), the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan, the Land Reform Agency (yet to be launched by government) and other progressive programmes and policies available to the nation.

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