In a 10 a.m. forum on 26 June in the Leadership Lab, presented by Ntshovelo Maluleka under the umbrella of the South African University Forum (SASUF), Tshwane University of Technology lecturer Ndlela Xaba delivered a stark wake‑up call: “Climate change is not just environmental—it’s agricultural.” He warned that if not dealt with, it could destroy farmers, drain rural livelihoods, and threaten the country’s backbone.
Xaba encouraged students and guests to engage actively, and he welcomed questions and discussion during the session. He referred to the availability of little land for farming because of high population growth levels, a warning that this imbalance already causes food deficiencies. He reminded all that over 100 people have died in recent floods—defined as climate change-related tragedies by President Ramaphosa—occurring in the Eastern Cape, with Cape Town experiencing the same extreme weather conditions.
Continuing on the farm fallout, Xaba explained that crop harvests are dwindling, a situation that undermines food security. He also sounded a warning regarding a worst-ever outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease at the largest beef feedlot in South Africa, Karan Beef in Heidelberg, an occurrence that is now under quarantine. The outbreak jeopardizes the country’s main beef supply, could cause higher meat prices, and has already prompted export bans.
He emphasized public education in the learning of ways to save land and prevent pollution. Xaba implemented several innovative approaches: harvesting water from the air to create clean, healthy water; drip irrigation to provide moisture directly into the crops; recycling organic waste into compost; and reforestation by planting trees to restore ecosystems and stabilize carbon.
The workshop was lively and successful—learners engaged enthusiastically, posed questions, and expressed interest in starting projects. Some enrolled to begin groups with the objective of experimenting and implementing solutions discussed. The workshop ended with a genuine vote of thanks by Mr Kheth Mokete, commending the good attendance and lively engagement.
Xaba’s closing statement highlighted that to deal directly with climate change through education, technology, and community action is key to capturing South Africa’s food systems and rural livelihoods. The forum showed genuine momentum: dialogue has given way to tangible, doable plans.
