Urban Agri Summit 2017

International experts, regional authorities, investors and stakeholders from the agriculture sector will gather on September 7th & 8th in Johannesburg, South Africa, for the inaugural Urban Agri Summit 2017.

The two-day event will serve as a springboard to support the successful launch of Vertical Farming, Greenhouse and Controlled Environment Agriculture across Africa’s urban landscape to help address the needs of the continent’s rapidly growing populations.

Various initiatives have already been undertaken by South Africa to spur innovation in its agriculture sector. Africa has unique opportunities for vertical farms and Controlled Environment Agriculture.

Vertical farming (including its variations) is one of the most innovative approaches that can be tapped as part of an effort to grow fresh, healthy, nutritious and pesticide-free food for consumers.

Controlled Environment Agriculture, Vertical Farming and advanced greenhouse methods are bound to completely transform food systems in developing countries and developed countries alike. We at the AVF believe the global Vertical Farming market is now ready to make a notable impact on the agricultural sector in Africa. - Stephane Razzon, AVF.

Highlights of the Summit will include insightful presentations and engaging panel discussions by international organisations and experts from Europe, the Middle East, Australia and the USA, combined with a technology showcase.

The world’s population is expected to increase by about 3 billion by 2050 & it is forecast that nearly 80% of that population will live in urban centres. Africa’s urban growth rate is at 3.5% the highest in the world and double the world average.

The Challenge of growing enough healthy food for Africa’s growing cities is enormous. At the same time, the stresses of climate change, and the declining availability of arable land and fresh water are challenging conventional agriculture as never before.

Many countries and companies are expressing strong interest in vertical farming business & urban agriculture. It is a solution to the weather and pests problems, food security, climate change and environmental preservation. Commercialization of vertical farming is catching on in Asia, Europe, USA, Russia & now Africa.

Many private companies are interested in growing crops in hydroponic, aquaponics & aeroponics systems in warehouses, greenhouses, containers & high scrapers. There is also a burgeoning interest in the production of medicinal plants in vertical farms.

Africa has unique opportunities for vertical farms. Feeding Africa’s rapidly growing urban population will continue to be a daunting challenge, but vertical farming – and its variations – is one of the most innovative approaches that can be tapped into as part of an effort to grow fresh, healthy, nutritious and pesticide-free food for consumers.

“We are very excited that the Urban Agri Summit will be taking place in Johannesburg this year. Our 2017 Agriculture Market Intelligence Report has shown that there are significant opportunities for farmers, investors and businesses in CEA in the region. The Urban Agri Summit is a great platform where international experiences and ideas are shared, influencing opportunities and overcoming barriers to the growth of the CEA market. We believe the summit is a great opportunity to not only support the growth of the CEA market in South Africa, but also support South Africa’s transition to a more resilient green economy.” - Jana Jordaan, GreenCape.

Find out more about the summit here.