In what many attending described as a challenging time for South African agriculture, speakers at the allFresh! 2005 conference conveyed a strong sense of optimism as delegates heard speeches on a number of ways and means to revive business, and boost the agricultural economy.
There was an underlying concentration on ethical issues, and in particular the need for greater integration between South Africa’s staged economies, consisting of commercial farmers, developing farmers and emerging farmers. Many speakers touched upon the issues of educating workers part of the general Black Economic Empowerment move toward ethical transformation in the sector, including case studies on current projects which are proving successful.
In addition, the need for a coordinated approach by all members of the fresh produce industry was continually raised by speakers and attendees alike, with some advocating that this was the only way to ensure success for the future of the industry as a whole.
Speakers concentrated on ways to reverse the current trend of oversupply and concentrating on tapping into new markets with quality products. This included nurturing a rising middle-class black consumer base through empowerment, and in export, adding value and differentiating products in order to penetrate a saturated market.
The rapid rise of the HIV/AIDS virus among work forces was an emotive subject, with the need to take action and invest in providing medication and education to workers a powerful message from the Agriaids group.
The subject of the impact of pesticides on the environment and the concept of understanding retailer requirements were points also raised by speakers.
Overall, the need for new direction in an ever-more competitive market was clear and united the presentations of some of the industry’s key players.
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