On 19 August, SACTA-funded interns in FABI’s Phytosanitation and Biosecurity Programme attended the South African Cultivar and Technology Agency’s (SACTA) 2026 Annual Stakeholder Engagement Meeting. The event, themed “Stronger pathways, sustainable future”, also marked SACTA’s 10^th anniversary.

SACTA CEO, Mr Andrew Bennett, Transformation Manager, Mr Sandile Mahlangu, and Operations Executive, Ms Anelda Craffert reported on the organisation’s activities over the past year. Mr Bennett also presented an overview of SACTA’s achievements during its first decade.

The meeting brought together representatives from seed companies, research institutions and government to consider the agricultural sector’s progress, challenges and opportunities. Discussions covered climate change, drought resilience, declining commodity prices, yield gaps and emerging technologies. A panel discussion on wheat-industry challenges, cultivar quality, plant-breeding regulations and genome editing highlighted the need for cultivars that serve farmers and the broader agricultural value chain.

The interns assisted with registration, welcomed attendees and engaged with stakeholders from across the sector. The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration among researchers, breeders, seed companies, government, farmers and other role players in translating innovation into meaningful impact.

FABI thanks SACTA for its continued support and for giving the interns valuable exposure to the agricultural industry.