Advancing Bioethanol, Renewable Energy and Sustainable Agriculture for Inclusive Economic Development
A Platform for Sustainable Agricultural Development
The Black Agricultural Commodities Federation (BACF) is set to host the 2nd International Conference and Awareness Workshop on Sweet Sorghum and Sugarcane on 25 and 26 November 2026 in Pretoria. The two-day event will bring together farmers, industry experts, government representatives, researchers, stakeholders and experienced professionals to explore the growing potential of sweet sorghum and sugarcane in advancing renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and rural economic development.
The conference will take place at the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Auditorium, 600 Lilian Ngoyi Street, Berea Park, Pretoria, South Africa.
Advancing Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy
Held under the theme “Advancing Bioethanol, Renewable Energy, and Eco-Friendly Agriculture for Job Creation, Economic Development, and Improved Rural Livelihoods,” the conference seeks to highlight the important role that agricultural innovation can play in addressing economic, environmental and social challenges.
Sweet sorghum and sugarcane have potential beyond traditional agricultural production. Through appropriate processing and value-added activities, these crops can contribute to the production of bioethanol and renewable energy, while supporting agricultural enterprises and creating opportunities throughout rural communities.
The conference will provide a platform for discussions around sustainable farming practices, renewable energy solutions, agricultural value chains and opportunities for rural communities to participate more effectively in the green economy.
Bringing Farmers and Industry Together
The event is expected to attract approximately 300 participants, including around 250 small-scale farmers as well as 50 international and local delegates, industry experts and experienced professionals. The strong representation of small-scale farmers is particularly significant, as the conference aims to ensure that conversations around sustainable agriculture and renewable energy translate into practical opportunities at community level.
Participants will have an opportunity to engage with specialists and other stakeholders, exchange knowledge and explore innovative approaches that could strengthen agricultural productivity, create employment and improve livelihoods in rural areas.
The Role of Bioethanol and Renewable Energy
One of the central areas of focus will be the potential of bioethanol and renewable energy as drivers of economic growth and environmental sustainability. The development of agricultural-based renewable energy industries has the potential to create new markets for farmers while supporting broader efforts to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. By connecting agricultural production with renewable energy and industrial development, initiatives surrounding sweet sorghum and sugarcane could contribute to new value chains, business opportunities and employment across rural communities.
Strengthening Rural Economies and Job Creation
Beyond agricultural production, the conference places significant emphasis on job creation, economic development and improved rural livelihoods.
Developing sustainable agricultural value chains can create opportunities not only for farmers, but also for transport operators, suppliers, processors, technical specialists, entrepreneurs and other businesses involved in the agricultural and renewable-energy ecosystem. For small-scale farmers in particular, participation in emerging value chains could provide opportunities to diversify income streams, improve market access and become more closely integrated into broader agricultural and industrial economies
Collaboration Across Key Institutions
The conference is being held in collaboration with the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and the University of South Africa (UNISA). The involvement of government and academic institutions provides an important foundation for collaboration between policymakers, researchers, farmers and industry stakeholders. Such partnerships can help bridge the gap between research, policy and practical implementation within the agricultural sector.
The collaboration also reinforces the importance of knowledge-sharing and innovation in developing sustainable solutions for South Africa’s agricultural and rural communities. An Opportunity for Farmers, Stakeholders and Sponsors. The organizers are inviting farmers, stakeholders and sponsors to participate in the conference. With registration now open, the event presents an opportunity for participants to connect with individuals and organizations working across agriculture, renewable energy, rural development and related industries.
The registration fee is R150, making the event accessible to a broad range of participants interested in the future of sustainable agriculture and renewable energy Looking Towards a Sustainable Future. The 2nd International Conference and Awareness Workshop on Sweet Sorghum and Sugarcane comes at a time when sustainable agricultural development, renewable energy and rural economic empowerment are becoming increasingly important. By bringing farmers, government, academia and industry together, the conference aims to encourage collaboration, promote innovation and explore practical pathways towards a more sustainable agricultural economy.
Ultimately, the event seeks to demonstrate how people, plants and innovation can work together to support a greener and more prosperous future for South Africa and its rural communities.
| Event Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 2nd International Conference and Awareness Workshop on Sweet Sorghum and Sugarcane |
| Dates | 25–26 November 2026 |
| Venue |
Department of Land Reform and Rural Development Auditorium, 600 Lilian Ngoyi Street, Berea Park, Pretoria, South Africa |
| Expected Attendance | Approximately 300 participants |
| Key Participants | Small-scale farmers, local and international delegates, industry experts and experienced professionals |
| Registration Fee | R150 |
| Focus Areas | Sustainable agriculture, bioethanol, renewable energy, economic growth, job creation and rural development |
| In Collaboration With |
Department of Land Reform and Rural Development; University of the Western Cape; University of South Africa (UNISA) |
| Organized By | Black Agricultural Commodities Federation (BACF), in collaboration with various international partners, Ceylon Sugar Industries & Holdings (PVT) LTD, National Sugar Institute (NSI), Intelense, Rishikesh Export and Advanta |
People • Plants • Innovation • A Sustainable Tomorrow
