The Agricultural Research Council, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD), will host their maiden conference
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD), will host their first-ever joint annual conference. The conference will be inaugurated and addressed by Honourable Ms Thoko Didiza, Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, on 12 February 2024. Dr Litha Magingxa, the ARC's CEO and President, will also be in attendance, signifying the inaugural joint conference of this nature within the agricultural sector.
The conference, taking place from 12 to 14 February 2024, will be hosted at the ARC-Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (ARC-VIMP) Roodeplaat Campus under the theme "Science Transforming Food Systems for a Better Future."
During the opening ceremony, Minister Didiza will deliver a keynote address, setting the stage for the conference's exploration of innovative solutions to challenges in agriculture, food security, and healthcare.
The ARC-DALRRD conference aims to bring together over 1000 delegates, including scientists, farmers, and various stakeholders within the agricultural sector. Additionally, the conference will be live streamed for virtual participation by those unable to attend in person.
Several exhibitors from different parts of South Africa will participate, offering an opportunity for substantial discussions on the crucial role of agriculture, science, technology, and innovation in shaping a sustainable future.
With over 70 sessions covering various subthemes, the conference will focus on the insights and expertise of South Africa's leading scientists and thought leaders. These sessions will facilitate discussions on topics crucial to the advancement of agricultural practices and technologies.
Members of the media are invited as follows:
Day 1
Date: 12 February 2024
Time: 09:00-16:30
Venue: ARC-VIMP, KwaMhlanga / Moloto road (R573) Roodeplaat Pretoria District
GPS Coordinates: 25°59'S, 28°35'E
A media briefing is scheduled from 11:00 to 12:00, but members of the media are welcome to cover the conference starting from the opening ceremony at 09:00 until the last session concludes at 16:00.
Day 2
Date: 13 February 2024
Time: 09:00-16:30
Venue: ARC VIMP
GPS Coordinates: 25°59'S, 28°35'E
As part of the conference activities, two Farmer's Day are scheduled.
One Farmer’s Day will be to commemorate 75 Years of Potato and Sweet Potato Research. The event is planned as follows:
Date: 13 February 2024
Time: 10:00-14:00
Venue: Onspoed Small Stock Genetics, Bronkhorspruit
GPS Coordinates: 25°48’32.7”S, 28°55'58.9”E
There will be another Farmer’s Day at ARC Animal Production Institute at Irene, Pretoria.
Date: 13 February 2024
Time: 10:00 -14:00
Venue: Irene
GPS Coordinates: 25.8994° S, 28.2140° E
NB: Members of the media can confirm their attendance for the Farmer’s Day with Mr. Sello Tshipi at 0734986722 for transport arrangements from ARC VIMP.
Day 3
Date: 14 February 2024
Time: 09:00-13:00
Venue: VIMP
For further information:
Ms Joy Nonzukiso Peter
Senior Manager: Marketing and Communications Services
Tel: 012 427 9905
Cell: 066 475 6885
E-mail: Peterj@arc.agric.za
