NOW that the G20 Summit has come and gone, and global leaders have prioritised economic and financial stability, tackling the critical issues needed to accelerate sustainable and inclusive growth and food systems, the transition toward climate-smart, locally rooted production is central to the discussions.
Morne Botes, Commercial Director at Southern Oil (SOILL), says the timing is significant: “As the chairing country, South Africa has driven the Ubuntu Declaration, which places dignity, solidarity, and equitable food systems at the heart of this year’s G20 focus.”
Despite being classified as a food-secure nation with a robust agricultural base, South Africa continues to struggle with food insecurity at the household level. Recent data from the South African Food Security Index shows notable progress – rising from 44.9 in 2024 to 56.5 in 2025 – but the sector remains vulnerable to climate pressures, rising input costs and youth disengagement from agriculture.
Botes believes this is where local producers can lead: “South Africa is already a continental leader in agri-exports and policy innovation. Food producers have a real opportunity to accelerate sustainable innovation – from local sourcing and regenerative farming to reducing import reliance – key measures for strengthening and growing South Africa’s agricultural sector. Our commitment to supporting local canola farmers at SOILL is a practical example of this in action.”
Local food producers for sustainable impact
Agricultural contributes about 2.8% to GDP and 4% to national employment, a modest share on paper, but one that feeds millions and carries significant potential. With the local food market set to grow from USD 17.3 billion in 2025 to USD 25 billion by 2030, the real opportunity lies in shifting toward climate-smart, inclusive and innovation-driven growth.
“By sourcing canola, for example, directly from South African farmers, we not only build a resilient supply chain but also cut transport emissions linked to long-distance logistics and ensure full traceability. It’s a practical response that aligns well with the G20’s call for resilient, locally anchored food systems,” says Botes.
This localised mode keeps economic value rooted in the regions and communities that need it most. For geographically dispersed communities – often the earliest to absorb global price pressures – consistent demand, skills development and secure employment can be transformative. Transparent and ethical sourcing can drive sustainability while still delivering strong commercial outcomes.
“For South Africa’s food producers to lead in sustainable innovation rather than simply keep up, the sector needs expanded access to technology, financing and skills development. Opening the doors for the children of farmworkers and nurturing the next generation of agricultural talent is also becoming equally important,” adds Botes.
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Tech in farming drives innovation
Technology is reshaping farming faster than many realise. Tools like drones, soil sensors and GPS mapping have already become part of the everyday operations. According to the Department of Science and Innovation, 67% of South African agribusinesses are experimenting with these technologies. It’s not about chasing the latest gadget; it’s the farmers looking for ways to stay ahead of tougher seasons and tighter margins.
“We’ve seen how small data points can transform an entire approach,” says Botes. “They make it easier to make informed decisions on planting, irrigation and in-field adjustments. Working closely with our farmers, we’ve promoted regenerative practices – farming that restores soil health rather than depleting nutrients. Healthier soil retains more water, stores more carbon and helps farmers recover more quickly when weather conditions fluctuate unexpectedly.”
The outcome is a food system that’s more resilient, environmentally sustainable and better equipped to face future challenges.
Sustainability as a competitive advantage
For South Africa’s food producers, sustainable innovation is not just an ethical imperative – it is fast becoming a commercial one. Transparent sourcing, ethical supply chains, and traceable products are increasingly demanded by both global buyers and domestic
South Africa brought strong credentials to the table: adaptable farming communities, a growing appetite for innovation and a shared commitment to fairness and long-term security.
“The next step is deeper collaboration,” emphasises Botes. “Farmers, industry, government, and academia must work more closely together to advance regenerative practices and open up supply chains. If we get this right, South Africa won’t just follow global sustainability trends – it can help shape them.”
He adds that the impact is already visible in the fields, factories and partnerships that are quietly transforming the landscape. What is needed now is scale: more investment, more cross-sector partnerships, and broader sharing of what works.
“As global leaders look for practical examples, South Africa can demonstrate that building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable food system is not a distant aspiration – it is happening here, steadily, tangibly and ready to be accelerated,” concludes Botes.
