Minister Steenhuisen Calls on South Africa’s Farmers to Embrace Growth, Innovation and Resilience in 2026

As the new year begins, South Africa’s farmers continue a tradition of resilience, observing the skies, tending to animals, and making critical decisions amid uncertainty. Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen’s New Year message addressed the sector, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Steenhuisen emphasized that agriculture is more than an economic activity; it is a way of life that sustains families, feeds the nation, and strengthens rural communities. He acknowledged the shared effort behind every meal, involving farmworkers, veterinarians, researchers, advisers, agri-businesses, and rural households. The minister recognized the pressures facing the sector, including climate uncertainty, rising input costs, animal disease, and global market instability, all of which influence decisions across commodity groups.

Despite these challenges, Steenhuisen’s message focused on opportunities for growth. The government plans to support production increases, rural safety improvements, export expansion, and the development of an inclusive, resilient, and competitive agricultural sector. Practical assistance and long-term security for farmers are central to this vision. South Africa’s reputation for quality and traceability has opened international markets, created jobs along the value chain, and strengthened trust in the global market. The minister emphasized preserving and expanding market access while ensuring compliance with international standards.

Supporting young farmers was highlighted as essential. Training, land access, funding, mentorship, and technology will be prioritized to encourage innovation and sustainability. Steenhuisen noted that young farmers bring fresh perspectives and energy, helping maintain rural communities for future generations. Progress depends on collaboration across the sector, including farmers, industry, researchers, government, and communities, sharing responsibility to overcome collective challenges.

A key commitment in the message is the government’s strategy against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), a critical threat to livestock farmers and market access. The plan targets a 70% reduction in high-risk areas within 24 months through mass vaccination, aiming to cover 90% of communal and commercial herds and 100% of dairy cows. Vaccinations are scheduled to begin in February 2026, supported by local vaccine production and increased diagnostic capacity at the Agricultural Research Council and Onderstepoort Veterinary Laboratory. Traceability will be strengthened via the Livestock Identification and Traceability System, and enforcement will involve SAPS and other agencies, with veterinary graduates deployed to assist in the field.

Steenhuisen’s New Year message reflects both appreciation and action. It recognizes the perseverance of South Africa’s agricultural community while calling for collective commitment, discipline, and cooperation to ensure success. The message underscores that the future of agriculture depends on day-to-day decisions on farms, collaboration across the value chain, and a shared dedication to growth and sustainability.

The minister extended gratitude to the agricultural community, expressing hopes for good weather, productive seasons, safe rural communities, expanding markets, and increased confidence in 2026.