The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has partnered with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to develop a Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Roadmap for Agriculture — a key initiative aimed at strengthening South Africa’s agrifood systems through innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
The roadmap seeks to enhance institutional coordination, promote technological advancement, and accelerate the transformation of agriculture into a more resilient and equitable sector aligned with South Africa’s national development goals and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While agriculture remains one of the country’s most resilient sectors, it continues to face challenges such as climate change, high input costs, energy instability, market barriers, and rural poverty. The new roadmap will tackle these issues by driving innovation in high-value crops, livestock, and agro-processing, as well as creating opportunities for women and youth, strengthening value chains, and improving food and nutrition security through sustainable technologies.
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Anchored in South Africa’s STI Decadal Plan (2022–2032) and FAO’s Strategic Framework 2022–2031, the initiative advances the “Four Betters” — better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life — while contributing directly to SDGs 2 (Zero Hunger), 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and 13 (Climate Action).
The roadmap will also complement existing national strategies such as the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan, the Forestry Sector Master Plan, and the Aquaculture Research and Technology Development Strategy, ensuring synergy across government, academia, and industry.
To guide implementation, a steering committee comprising directors-general from key departments will be established, supported by an advisory group representing academia, industry, and implementing agencies. The project, which formally began with an inception meeting in September 2025, is expected to be completed by September 2026.
Through this collaboration, South Africa and FAO reaffirm their shared commitment to using science, technology, and innovation as catalysts for sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient agrifood systems — ensuring that no one is left behind.
