The assurance follows the South African Weather Service’s (SAWS) Seasonal Climate Watch issued on 31 August, which warned of below-normal rainfall in many parts of the country during the summer season.
In a video shared on X, Aucamp acknowledged the concerns facing the agricultural sector but urged farmers to focus on preparedness, drawing on their experience in managing previous drought periods.
“We have heard the news about El Niño, which is going to have an effect on the agricultural sector, but we must be prepared and not be too negative about it. It is not the first time farmers have had to go through drought periods,” he said.
Government to strengthen early warnings
Aucamp highlighted the resilience of farmers and the role of technology and innovation in helping producers manage climate-related risks.
“Farmers are resilient; they know how to farm and how to take up these drought periods. Things have changed over the years, and today we have innovation that helps us to have data so that we will be better prepared to handle this drought,” he said.
He said government will strengthen early warning systems and provide regular weather updates, particularly regarding extreme heat conditions.
Click HERE to read the full article.