The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Thembeni KaMadlopha-Mthethwa, attended the Provincial Climate Change Council meeting chaired by Premier Mr Thami Ntuli on Friday 03 July 2026 at the Archie Gumede Conference Centre in Mayville, Durban.

The Council brought together government, stakeholders, and experts to strengthen the province’s response to the impacts of climate change. Some of the key agricultural topics the department is advocating for include:

1. Climate Change Mitigation for Agriculture: Strategies to reduce the sector’s vulnerability, including climate-smart farming practices, soil and water conservation, and drought-resilient crops.
2. Farmer Advisory on Ploughing and Livestock: Guidance for farmers to align planting and livestock management with changing weather patterns to minimise losses and protect livelihoods.
3. Use of Early Warning Systems: A strong call for all farmers to actively use alerts and advisories issued by the KZN Provincial Disaster Management Centre to prepare for extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves.

"Managing climate risk is now part of farming. Our farmers must plant with the weather in mind, protect their livestock, and listen to early warnings. As government, we will continue to strengthen extension support, so no farmer is left behind,” said MEC KaMadlopha-Mthethwa."

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will work with the Disaster Management Centre and district municipalities to roll out farmer awareness campaigns on climate adaptation.