FOOD SECURITY SUMMIT UNITES STAKEHOLDERS IN FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER

On 29 May 2025, Langeberg Municipality hosted a Food Security Summit at the Robertson Town Hall, bringing together a wide range of stakeholders committed to addressing hunger and improving food security in the region.

The summit created a collaborative platform for government departments, community organisations, non-profits, and other key role players to engage in meaningful discussion around the challenges of food insecurity and malnutrition.

The day started with a welcome from Cllr Lorinda Prince, followed by Scripture and prayer by Rev Randow Jantjies. Langeberg Municipality’s Deputy Mayor, Ald. Christopher Grootboom then shared the purpose of the summit and the need for urgent action.

“We want to make sure that people understand what the value chain of food security in Langeberg is. It starts with the seed, and it ends with a plate of food on the table. Whether you’re producing food on a big scale or a small scale, whether you’re involved in animal processing, informal trading, or retail, we all play a role. And it’s our shared responsibility to ensure that even those who cannot afford food are not left behind,” said Cllr Grootboom during the opening address.

 A series of impactful presentations followed, including from Mr Vusumzi Zwelendaba of the Department of Agriculture (Western Cape), Michael Mackenzie of CASIDRA, and Mr Guillaume Nell of Laeveld Agrochem. Mr Thembelani Mthoko of Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute highlighted the role of agricultural education in long-term food resilience. Oral presentations by Mr Heinerich Du Plessis and Mrs Monica Tiras shared local insights and practical experiences, strengthening the dialogue around food access and sustainable agriculture.

 After lunch, attendees broke into smaller groups (commissions) to discuss possible solutions. Each group later presented their ideas, showing a strong spirit of cooperation. Central to the discussions were the urgent issues affecting vulnerable communities, the impact of poverty as a root cause of hunger, and the necessity of collaboration in developing sustainable, long-term solutions.

 Councillor Craig Steyn delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation for everyone’s valuable contributions.

 Langeberg Municipality thanks all speakers, guests and organisations who took part in the event. This summit was a step forward in building a united plan to ensure food security for everyone in the Langeberg.

 Want to learn more about the groups that spoke at the Food Security Summit? Visit their websites to see how they help with farming, training and food support and how you can get involved:

·         Department of Agriculture, Western Cape: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/agriculture

·         CASIDRA (Cape Agency for Sustainable Integrated Development in Rural Areas): www.casidra.co.za

·         Laeveld Agrochem: www.laeveld.co.za

·         Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute: https://www.elsenburg.com/elsenburg-agricultural-training-institute/