The SmartAgri project provides foundational information on smart agricultural practices for the Western Cape, supporting resource efficiency, climate resilience and sustainable farm management.
The Western Cape Climate Change Response Framework and Implementation Plan for the Agricultural Sector (the SmartAgri Plan) was launched in May 2016 after 20 months of research and stakeholder engagements.
The SmartAgri project was a collaborative effort between the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WC-DoA) and the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs & Development Planning (WC-DEA & DP) and conducted under the leadership of the University of Cape Town’s African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI).
The plan presents the “road map” for the agricultural sector to travel towards a more productive and sustainable future, despite the uncertainties around specific climate projections.
01
Using weather data, soil sensors, yield monitors and other information sources to make better-informed farm management decisions rather than relying solely on tradition or observation.
02
Applying water, fertilisers, pesticides and other inputs precisely where and when they are needed - reducing waste, lowering costs and minimising environmental impact.
03
Adapting farming systems to cope with increasing climate variability - through improved soil health, diversified crops, water harvesting, and flexible production planning.
04
Balancing productive agriculture with the conservation of biodiversity, ecosystem services and natural landscapes that underpin long-term farm viability.
05
Building a culture of shared learning between farmers, researchers and support agencies — using farmer-to-farmer networks, case studies and accessible digital platforms.
06
Connecting smarter, more sustainable farming practices to market opportunities — including premiums for sustainable produce, green certification and agro-processing partnerships.
The Western Cape faces unique agricultural challenges including a Mediterranean climate with high summer water stress, increasing drought frequency, and the need to maintain production alongside some of the world's most biodiverse landscapes.
Farming sectors including wine grapes, deciduous fruit, grain, vegetables and livestock all have opportunities to adopt smart practices that reduce input costs and environmental impact while maintaining or improving yields.
The Smart Agri programme provides practical tools, case studies and benchmarking data relevant specifically to Western Cape conditions and farming systems.
