MoU a big boost for agriculture

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - Although the memorandum of understanding (MoU) that was signed on Friday 11 March between the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA) and the Californian Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) focuses on agriculture, it seems that other sectors could also benefit.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said the similarities between the two geographical regions are amazing. The agricultural sector in the Western Cape and California both have Mediterranean climates and are essential for food security globally.

They share many similarities and challenges related to production, climate, and soils. Winde sees the MoU as an important strategic partnership that will give the agricultural sector a big boost, and he is looking forward to taking it to other areas of cooperation.

Winde and the Provincial Minister of Agriculture Dr Ivan Meyer attended the digital signing from Cape Town while CDFA secretary Karen Ross took part from California.

According to a statement the aims of the MoU include the following: the exchange of information on climate change mitigation and best practices within the agricultural sector; connecting academic institutions to further research and collaborate on water-use efficiency in the agricultural sector; and furthering the use and availability of climate-smart agricultural technology and on-farm practices to improve soil health, water-use efficiency, and modelling to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Meyer said the MoU signals the beginning of an exciting period for the two regions. The Western Cape is currently responsible for 53% of South Africa's agriculture exports. The two regions can learn from each other.

It is his department's view that the cooperation will strengthen the resilience of the Western Cape's agricultural sector and the provincial government's ability to respond to climate change.

There are also real and tangible benefits to be gained from an exchange between the WCDoA and the CDFA on farm practices and technologies to support a robust and climate-resilient agricultural sector.

The MoU aims to bolster food security and address environmental challenges.

Ross said California is pleased to join the Western Cape in furthering opportunities for farmers and ranchers in climate-smart agriculture.

"Our shared commitment to connect farmers, academia and government will help to expand on-farm adaptation of practices that benefit our natural and working lands."

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde and Western Cape Minister of Agriculture Dr Ivan Meyer at the signing of the agreement.