The AgroClimate Symposium 2025 is organised by the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), in response to the increasing need for integrated, evidence-based approaches to agricultural development under changing climatic conditions. South Africa, like many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, is experiencing shifts in rainfall patterns, temperature variability, and the frequency of extreme weather events, all of which influence food security, water resources, and rural livelihoods. At the same time, advances in climate science, data infrastructure, and agrometeorological services present opportunities for innovation and improved decision-making across the agricultural sector. The symposium seeks to bring together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders to share evidence, tools, and experiences that support climate-informed agriculture and sustainable resource use.
The main objectives of the AgroClimate Symposium 2025 are to:
Highlight the role of climate science in enhancing agricultural resilience and food security.
Share latest research, technologies, and innovations in climate-smart agriculture.
Facilitate dialogue between government, research institutions, academia and private sector on climate adaptation and mitigation strategies to strengthen collaboration.
Promote collaborative responses to drought, water scarcity, and ecosystem degradation in the agricultural context.
Showcase applied climatic research, tools, models, innovations and networks for climate monitoring, early warning, and decision-making support.
Strengthen South Africa's contribution to regional and global climate commitments.
Create opportunities for professionals and students to share their work in the field of agroclimate science, built capacity and engage with experts in the field of agroclimate.
Expected outcomes:
Improved understanding of climate change impacts on South African agriculture.
Improved climate information management and accessibility.
Integrating climate information in agricultural policies, legislation and decision-making.
Enhanced awareness of scientific tools, innovations, and policy options for climate adaptation.
Strengthened partnerships among stakeholders in climate and agriculture sectors.
Identification of practical actions and policy recommendations to support climate-resilient agriculture.
Capacity building in climate science.
