CEO, Grain SA
I have been part of the Grain SA team for almost a year now. Returning to the agricultural sector after quite a while, is like a family Christmas after being away for a number of years. It’s nice to see everyone again. At first you notice the things that have remained the same – and then you start noticing the differences. The uncle with his naughty jokes is still there, but the teenagers have grown up and are now capable and interesting individuals.
In the same way agriculture and the environment in which we work have changed significantly over the last few decades. Most notable is the government of national unity, which represents a watershed in South Africa’s political history. Politics will now be more accountable than in the past, but we will have to get used to the chaos and uncertainty of coalition governments. We will still struggle with implementation, but the government will listen more than before as they try to move closer to voters. However, all of this is background noise when one is in the grip of the cost-price squeeze.
The economist Schumpeter’s concept of creative destruction is visible in the agricultural sector in all its glorious creativity and the terrifying breakdown of everything that does not meet the market’s standards. I stand in awe of the technological changes of the last two decades. Computer technology has not only become commonplace, but also essential. Cell phones and social media are everywhere. Everyone, from mechanics to computer programmers, makes use of YouTube for ideas to do their jobs better. There is also a shift from social media to artificial intelligence, ushering in a whole new era.
Ideas spread like wildfire on social platforms, with consumers as activists. Food panic follows quickly after food fear and consumers demand that our limited range of chemicals be banned. Recently, a colleague mentioned that we should see agrochemicals as medicine for plants. Just like with medicine for humans, there is a prescription and a dosage. If you do not follow these, the medicine may be ineffective or dangerous to your health. The same applies to agricultural chemicals and we need to share that picture with the consumers of our products.
I grew up on a farm and spent many years in the agricultural sector, but I have a renewed appreciation and understanding of the risks and stresses under which grain producers work. They invest millions in the soil annually, praying for a good season and a favourable market. I am amazed by Grain SA, an organisation that has been built up by grain producers over time. I appreciate the responsibility of creating an environment in which grain producers can produce food for the nation in a profitable and sustainable manner. Grain SA is the head office and advocacy organisation for all grain producers in South Africa. What a great privilege!
However, we are facing difficult times. International markets are under pressure, climate change seems real, and governments and producers around the world are struggling to find the balance between empowerment and protection through regulations and legislation.
After a difficult year, however, we can look forward to the approaching festive season, which creates a special opportunity for both introspection and renewal. For producers, Christmas is not only about celebrating being together with family and friends, but also about gratitude for the harvest and the year’s blessings. As Christians, we are reminded that this season is a special time to reflect on the birth of our Saviour who came to bring peace and hope to a world full of need. Just as He came to serve, our grain producers also serve in their quest to provide food for their fellow man.
With a new year upon us, we are also reminded of the resilience and determination that the Creator has given us. The challenges we face on the farm are just like the challenges we encounter in life. It is never too hard to overcome if we approach it with faith, hard work, and perseverance. As we look to the future, we know that each season brings new opportunities and challenges. With strength from Above, we will continue to welcome the future with courage and hope, filled with confidence that our needs will be met and that we will receive guidance through each season.
May this time of year bring peace and joy to your heart and may the new year bring growth and prosperity to you, your family, and your farm workers.
