By Faridat Salifu
South African farmers have welcomed the G20 Leaders’ Declaration issued over the weekend of November 23–24, 2025, for putting sustainable agriculture and climate-smart food systems at the heart of global priorities.
The declaration highlights improving soil health, managing biodiversity, conserving water and energy, and adopting innovative technologies to reduce food waste and enhance resilience.
Wandile Sihlobo, chief economist at Agbiz, said the statement affirms the critical role of science-driven approaches in farming, particularly in adapting to climate change while ensuring high yields.
Francois Rossouw, CEO of Southern African Agri Initiative, noted the G20’s focus on smallholder and family farmers, describing it as a key recognition that resilient, environmentally responsible farming is central to addressing hunger and food insecurity.
The declaration also promotes investments in African agricultural infrastructure, seed systems, fertiliser production, and storage solutions, supporting both sustainability and market access.
Bennie van Zyl, TLU SA general manager, said the G20’s emphasis on modern, resilient, and climate-smart agriculture provides a framework for balancing productivity with environmental stewardship.
Farmers and experts view the declaration as a signal that future investments will increasingly target technologies and practices that enhance ecological health, reduce emissions, and build long-term food system resilience.