Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural extension services in South Africa. Speaking at the centenary celebration of formal extension services in the country, he stressed the important role these services play in advancing rural development, food security, and knowledge sharing.
The centenary celebration coincides with the inaugural South African Agricultural Extension Week and the 58th Conference of the South African Society for Agricultural Extension (SASAE), under the theme: “Leveraging innovation and technology to enhance Extension and Advisory Services for sustainable agriculture, improved livelihoods and food security.”
Minister Steenhuisen praised extension practitioners for their hands-on support to farmers, particularly smallholders, by offering practical guidance to boost productivity, promote sustainability, and improve market access. He noted that their efforts contribute significantly to the agricultural sector, which accounts for around 12% of the national GDP. In the first quarter of 2025, the sector recorded a 15.8% growth, with extension services playing a key role.
To further support small-scale producers, the Department of Agriculture is implementing the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) model, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Eighteen officers were trained in Japan last year, with 20 more set to go in October.
The department also plans to employ 260 assistant agricultural practitioners this year and expand its Farmer Field School programme, supported by the FAO, across more provinces. Greater focus will be placed on supporting women, youth, and persons with disabilities in agriculture.
Minister Steenhuisen called on young South Africans to view agriculture as a promising career path, highlighting its wide range of opportunities—from agritech and agro-processing to entrepreneurship and policy.
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