Business Report Economy

Nampo Harvest Day triumphs with engaging discussions and robust exhibitor presence

FARMING

Yogashen Pillay|Published

Grain SA on Thursday said that the NAMPO Harvest Day 2025 conference in Bothaville, Free State was a big success.

Image: Picture: Henk Kruger Independent Newspapers

The Nampo Harvest Day 2025 has been declared a resounding success by Grain SA, highlighting the event's significance as a premier platform for agricultural innovation and industry collaboration.

The first two days of the 57th edition drew impressive crowds and notable guests, underscoring both the event's enduring popularity and its vital role in advancing agricultural dialogues in South Africa.

Grain SA on Thursday highlighted that the annual event commenced with a moving wreath-laying ceremony at the Wall of Remembrance, honouring those who have contributed meaningfully to the agricultural community.

Dr Dirk Strydom, managing director of Nampo, said discussions touched on several urgent topics, including the challenging production conditions faced by South African producers, the troubling levels of farm crime and issues of rural safety, and the need to improve market access.

“There was a strong focus on positioning agriculture as a key driver of job creation and economic growth in South Africa," Streydom said.

"The importance of genetic advancement and new crop technologies was also emphasised, especially in terms of global competitiveness. Additional issues discussed included plant health, protection measures, and yield optimisation as cornerstones of sustainable grain production.”

Strydom added that President Cyril Ramaphosa, who attended on Tuesday with his farming manager, shared his views on the policy process and reaffirmed the government's commitment to increasing investment in agriculture and supporting the development of modern technologies.

“He also pledged that focused interventions will be introduced to improve the safety of farmers and rural communities – a commitment that Grain SA welcomed," he said.

"Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Minister John Steenhuisen (Agriculture), and Minister Dean Macpherson (Public Works and Infrastructure) are expected to visit in the coming days – providing opportunities to build on ongoing collaboration and address practical solutions for the sector.”

Mahindra South Africa, widely recognised for its rugged and reliable bakkies that first gained popularity within the farming community, was showcasing its most ambitious presence yet at the exhibition.

GWM South Africa also particiaped at the Nampo, saying it was dedicated to providing vehicles that offer reliability, durability, advanced technology, and exceptional value within the agricultural sector.

Floyd Ramabulana, GWM South Africa's head of marketing, said that Nampo was a vital event even for the automotive industry.

"It's the perfect stage to unveil our latest innovations, like the new HAVAL H6, and demonstrate how GWM vehicles are engineered to not only meet but exceed the tough demands of the agricultural community," he said.

Toyota South Africa Motors said that they were a proud partner of Grain SA and as a global company with a local footprint, Toyota’s stand and presence at the Nampo was a showcase of the company’s innovation, suitable to the regional market.

“It affirms Toyota’s ongoing support and appreciation of the agricultural community in driving the economy forward.”

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