CASE STUDY

Case Study: 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture

22-24 July 2024 — Cape Town, South Africa.

Client: Charcoal Consultants

Event Partnership: M.I.C.E Management partnered with Paragon Africa

Event: 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture

Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre

Total Pax: 514 delegates

Programme: 3-day Congress, 1-day Practical Day

Accommodation: 505 room nights booked

STATS: Welcome Reception: 411 pax

GalaDinner: 360 pax

Practical Day: 358 pax

Movie Screening: 168 pax

Introduction

The 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture (WCCA) took place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 22-24 July, 2024. This prestigious event brought together global leaders in agriculture, including farmers, scientists, policymakers, and industry professionals, to discuss and advance the adoption of Conservation Agriculture (CA). The theme of the congress, ‘Cultivating Resilience: Conservation Agriculture for a Changing Climate’, highlighted the critical need for sustainable farming practices that are able to withstand the pressures of climate change, and ensure food security for future generations.

Background

Conservation Agriculture is based on three foundational principles: minimal soil disturbance, maintaining a permanent soil cover, and crop rotation. These practices are designed to enhance soil health, increase biodiversity, improve water retention, and reduce the environmental footprint of farming. The WCCA provides a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the development of policies that support sustainable agriculture.

Objectives of WCCA 2024

The primary objectives of the 9th WCCA were:

• Practical solutions to enhance CA adoption and scaling out/up even further and faster with special reference to Africa.

• Practical methods and examples by way of case studies, of dealing with real or perceived challenges in the CA system. This includes nutrient stratification, integrated soil fertility and acidity management, weeding, livestock integration, and integrated pest management.

• Monitoring, quantifying, and measuring soil health.

Key highlights

1. Opening Keynote

The congress was inaugurated by Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, RL Bosoga from the South African Department of Agriculture, and Beth Bechol, Deputy Director General of Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations who emphasised the country’s commitment to promoting sustainable farming practices in response to climate challenges. The keynote address highlighted the importance of CA in achieving national and global sustainability goals.

2. Scientific Sessions

The congress featured over 150 presentations and discussions on various aspects of CA, including soil health management, climate adaptation strategies, and the socio-economic benefits of CA. Notable presentations included research on the role of CA in mitigating labour bottlenecks and improving the productivity of smallholder conservation agriculture farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa through mechanisation.

3. Panel Discussions

High-profile panel discussions included representatives from leading agricultural research institutions. Topics covered included ‘The Future of Conservation Agriculture’, ‘Challenges to Small-Scale Farmers, and ‘Compatibility between Conservation Agriculture and Agroecological Production’.

4. Field Visits

Delegates had the opportunity to visit Langgewens Research Farm in the Swartland, practicing CA. This visit showcased the practical benefits of CA, including improved soil fertility, water conservation, and increased crop yields in semi-arid environments.

5. Exhibition

The congress featured an extensive exhibition where companies and startups showcased cutting-edge technologies, such as precision farming tools, drought-resistant crop varieties, and sustainable farming equipment.

Challenges addressed

The congress also highlighted several challenges that need to be addressed in order to accelerate the adoption of Conservation Agriculture:

• Adoption Barriers

Many farmers, particularly smallholders, face significant challenges in adopting CA practices, including a lack of access to knowledge, resources, and appropriate technology.

• Policy and Institutional Support

There is a need for stronger policy frameworks and institutional support at both national and regional levels to promote CA.

• Climate Change

The increasing unpredictability of climate patterns poses challenges to the consistent application of Conservation Agriculture practices, especially in regions vulnerable to extreme weather events.

Outcomes and recommendations

The 9th WCCA concluded with a set of recommendations aimed at promoting Conservation Agriculture on a global scale:

1. Strengthening Research

Increased investment in research to develop region-specific Conservation Agriculture practices that address local agricultural challenges.

2. Capacity Building

Expanding training and extension services for farmers, particularly in Africa, to enhance their ability to implement Conservation Agriculture practices effectively.

3. Policy Advocacy

Encouraging governments to develop and implement policies that provide incentives, financial support, and technical assistance for Conservation Agriculture adoption.

4. Global Partnerships:

Promoting international collaboration to share knowledge, technologies, and best practices related to Conservation Agriculture.

Conclusion

The 9th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture in Cape Town was a significant milestone in the global movement towards sustainable agriculture. By bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, the congress provided a platform for sharing innovations, discussing challenges, and developing strategies to promote Conservation Agriculture. As the world continues to face the dual challenges of climate change and food security, the outcomes of this congress are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of global agriculture.