Alumni discuss food security and climate-smart agriculture issues

The Australian High Commission in South Africa, in partnership with Australia Awards Africa, proudly hosted 20 distinguished alumni at a regional Food Security and Climate-Smart Agriculture Workshop held in Pretoria, South Africa, on 5 and 6 June 2025.

Over the two-day event, delegates engaged in dynamic discussions on critical issues and innovative solutions related to agriculture, land use, and climate adaptation. Key topics included Australia’s strategic approach to food security, the impactful work of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) across Africa, the role of Indigenous knowledge in combating land degradation, regional experiences in sustainable agriculture, and the importance of climate finance and investment in building resilience.

The workshop featured an inspiring lineup of speakers, including:

• Leah Ndugu, ACIAR Regional Manager for Africa
• Carol Mwape, Program Specialist in Energy and Environment at UNDP
• Christiaan Smit, International Savannah Fire Management Initiative (ISFMI) and Maki Planet Systems
• David Mickler, Co-chair of the Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN)
• Sue Walker, Agricultural Research Council
• Richard Stirzaker, Virtual Irrigation Academy
• Mpho Sadiki, Digital Earth Africa

The event was officially opened with remarks by Ms. Justine Jones, Acting Deputy High Commissioner to South Africa.

Members of the Executive Committee of the existing Community of Practice (CoP) in Climate Resilience took the opportunity to present an update on their activities over the past 12 months since the group’s establishment in 2024. They also engaged delegates in a collaborative discussion to gather insights and ideas for shaping the CoP’s direction in the months ahead.

Beyond the presentations, the workshop provided valuable opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange – strengthening partnerships and fostering collective action toward a more sustainable and food-secure future.