Following hot on the heels of World Hunger Day held on Monday 28 May, this fascinating subject will be broached by Professor Raymond Auerbach, incumbent professor of ecological agriculture at NMMU, Saasveld Campus on Saturday 9 June.
His formidable academic background includes a Doctorate in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (Integrated Catchment Management, Rainwater Harvesting, Sustainable Farming and Experiential Learning) at Wageningen Agricultural University (Netherlands) specialising in soil fertility.
Raymond is a leader within the African Organic Sector, specialising in capacity building for emerging organic farmers and Participatory Guarantee Systems for local organic certification.
Crop production in Africa can be increased dramatically using several approaches, including chemical fertilizer and hybrid seeds on the one hand, and modest inputs of organic manures and management on the other. He argues that the chemical Green Revolution route has seen millions of dollars invested in ineffectual, hi-tech solutions, which require skilled personnel and functioning infrastructure.
Join this lively discussion organised by WESSA on Saturday, 9 June from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Moriarty Centre, Botanical Garden, Caledon St. George. WESSA members free, non-members R10. For enquiries, contact the Secretary on 044 873 4203.
Professor Raymond Auerbach (second from left) seen with participants in an organic vegetable growing initiative.
