Press release
Nampo Cape 2022, one of Africa’s most impressive agricultural exhibitions in the southern hemisphere, takes place in Bredasdorp Park in the Cape from 14 to 17 September 2022, against a backdrop of renewed confidence alongside significant innovation and solid growth.
After an absence of two years due to the pandemic, Nampo Cape is hitting its third year, with an impressive array of industry-focused events and opportunities. This year there will be an additional 72 exhibition spaces as well as another four hectares of visitors’ parking. The BKB Livestock Centre – the old horse stable conversion – will host the BKB Merino Classic and the Overberg Youth Show. More than 500 exhibitors will populate the remaining space at the event, which will also host the Nedbank Flora flower arrangements, for which Nedbank has partnered with Grain SA.
Nedbank’s stand, ‘The future of agriculture is already here’ will offer attendees a space where they can find out more about Nedbank products and solutions on offer and engage with Nedbank experts to unpack the bank’s commitment to the key themes of the event, including economic growth and investment. Nedbank Commercial Banking has significant financial expertise and offers the agricultural sector relevant support and insight into contemporary issues faced by farmers. To cement its focus on the future of agriculture, Nedbank’s participation at the event will focus on climate resilience, climate change, digital- and e-commerce solutions, business growth and transformation.
‘We want to connect with the agricultural sector and its key players, and showcase our expertise at the event,’ says John Hudson, National Head of Agriculture at Nedbank (pictured below). ‘It is also an opportunity to remain focused on the core concepts that we believe are critical to the country and the sector: sustainability, transformation, inclusivity, and diversity. The level of black producer participation remains unacceptably low. This, together with food security, job creation, and sustainability, are key focus areas going forward, forming the core of the agricultural and agri-processing master plan. But more needs to be done on the back of a vibrant, internationally competitive, and sustainable sector’.
Commenting on the agricultural sector Hudson said that agriculture in South Africa is currently facing a myriad of challenges, and in the short term, market fundamentals will need to run their course, but in the longer term, strategic policy interventions and investments will be required to ensure that the sector continues to deliver and positively contribute to the South African economy. South African agriculture is export-driven. Therefore, much of the increase in local production needs to find its way onto export markets. Expanding market access and improving logistics, which imply an investment in infrastructure and efficiency, are therefore critical.’
Amid turmoil and uncertainty, the South African agricultural sector grew by 8,3% in 2021 and by 13,4% in 2020. Considering all the challenges, this is a remarkable performance, with the industry showing resilience through a highly volatile period.
The latest baseline report compiled by the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy indicates that further growth is expected in 2022, although at a slower pace of around 5%. Spiralling input costs offset much of the projected revenue gains in field crops and animal products, while prices in many horticultural industries are experiencing increased pressure.
‘As money experts committed to doing good, we are passionate about working with our clients and helping them grow their agricultural businesses, because we understand the critical role that agriculture plays in our economy,’ concludes Hudson.
Nampo 2022 is an essential platform for Nedbank to meet and engage with clients and industry stakeholders. As a bank we are keenly aware of the impact agricultural finance has on stimulating economic growth and driving positive change.
To speak to our Nedbank Agricultural Team at Nampo Cape 2022, please visit our stand or contact Edwin Naidu on 071 111 0505 or at [email protected].
Photo by Federico Respini on Unsplash
Relevant Agribook pages include “Agricultural shows and events” and “Providers of financial services“.
