GQEBERHA, 5 June 2026 – The Agbiz Congress 2026 got off to a successful start in Gqeberha, bringing together leaders from across South Africa's agricultural value chains under the theme, Embracing Collaboration.

The Congress was officially opened by Agbiz Deputy Chairperson Dr Lukeshni Chetty, who welcomed delegates, sponsors, students and members of the media. The day featured a packed programme of discussions focused on the future competitiveness and sustainability of South African agriculture.

Setting the tone for the Congress, Theo Boshoff positioned the theme Embracing Collaboration, highlighting the importance of partnerships in addressing the opportunities and challenges facing the sector.

Delegates heard keynote addresses from Mcebisi Jonas of the Presidency on geopolitics, economics and South Africa's position in a changing global environment, and Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke, who reflected on the evolving structure of South Africa's economy and demographics.

The programme also featured discussions on structural reforms and business-government partnerships, facilitated by Tanya Cohen of the National Planning Commission, with contributions from leading voices representing business and agricultural policy.

Afternoon sessions focused on practical interventions required to sustain agricultural growth. These included presentations by Mooketsa Ramasodi, Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, Dr Hubert Joynt of Infrastructure South Africa on rural roads development, and Adv Michelle Phillips of Transnet on progress in improving rail and port logistics efficiencies.

Parallel sessions explored critical topics including the future of biosecurity in South Africa, the catalytic role of finance in agricultural development, and the Agbiz Student Case Competition, which showcased innovative thinking from university students tackling real-world agricultural challenges.

The day concluded with the Agbiz Gala Dinner, proudly sponsored by Standard Bank. Delegates were addressed by Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, who shared reflections on the agricultural sector and its role in South Africa's growth and development.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Agbiz Honorary Awards to two distinguished leaders whose contributions have had a lasting impact on agriculture and agribusiness.

Justin Chadwick, former Chief Executive Officer of the Citrus Growers' Association of Southern Africa, was recognised for his decades of leadership and his role in strengthening the competitiveness and global position of the citrus industry.

Sean Walsh, former Managing Director of Kaap Agri, was honoured for his outstanding contribution to agribusiness, his people-centred leadership approach, and his role in building one of South Africa's leading agricultural businesses.

“We had an extraordinary period of deep reflections on geopolitics, trade, structural reforms and infrastructure issues. These are aspects that impact South Africa’s agriculture and agribusinesses, and we were able to share views with policymakers and business leaders aimed at strengthening collaboration and growth in the sector. We are encouraged by the deep participation and devotion of many of the stakeholders who joined us here in Gqeberha for these conversations. The goal is to ensure that agriculture continues to grow and create jobs. This is a view that all agribusinesses share, and government committed to a more ambitious and deeper collaboration with agribusinesses and organised agriculture.” -- Wandile Sihlobo, Agbiz Chief Economist

Photos from the Congress are available here and will continue to be updated throughout the event: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1bLvunveoPbxr6IH36ec3aMaoKbAQhEoN

ENDS