GEORGE NEWS - Well-known George academic Prof Raymond Auerbach was recently elected chairperson of the Network of Organic Agricultural Research in Africa (NOARA).
It is an important and influential position leading up to the triennial Organic World Congress (OWC) in Tunisia in October next year. The last OWC in France in 2021 was attended by stakeholders from all over the world, and Africa won the bid to host in Tunisia in 2024.
The organic sector has been growing steadily, as ecological organic agriculture addresses climate change, biodiversity, health and equity, and mothers have been voting with their consumer dollars for safe, wholesome organic foods with minimal processing.
Auerbach was appointed to the Agri-cultural Research Council (ARC) in South Africa in 2020 and is regarded by many as a pioneer in organic research. He has been involved in organic farming for more than 50 years.
It is the first time that a South African has been elected to the position of chairperson of this African network, and the appointment is likely to lead to clarity of focus on the research needs of African organic farmers.
Auerbach talked to George Herald about his new position and the way forward on Monday 13 March.
He said when he was appointed to the ARC, he made no secret that he was going to push for the organic sector to receive research support.
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
