Thanduxolo Adonis

Economist in the Agro – Food Chains Unit and academically astute, Thulani Ningi, has made the waves at the Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) annual conference that was held at the Boardwalk Convention Centre in Gqeberha from 9 -11 September 2024. Ningi’s paper scored position 3 out of 39 papers he was competing with.

This conference showcased a cutting – edge research work on mitigation and adaptation to climate change, with a special focus on Southern Africa, as well as research on other topics of vital interest to agricultural economists, farmers, and relevant policymakers in the region.

The papers were written and submitted under the theme: “Agricultural Economics Research for
Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change in Southern Africa”.

Mr Ningi accepted an award in recognition of the paper he contributed under the theme “Navigating
the climate gauntlet: Assessing the long-term impact of climate variability and change on South Africa’s key food production systems.” The paper was selected as one of the best contributed papers presented at the conference.

Ningi is currently pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Economics with an interest in food, energy, and water security for rural households at the University of Fort Hare.

He expressed his appreciation to the adjudicators for recognising his work and the academic contribution he is making in the agricultural sector.

“I feel honoured to receive this award and this is a recognition for my efforts in creating positive change. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and partners who have contributed to this success,” said Ningi.

“Since completing my Master’s degree, I have been actively publishing academic papers, which has resulted in more than seven publications. Furthermore, I have contributed three book chapters as well as reports. Alongside my research work, I have taken on part-time lecturing contracts to gain valuable experience that I hope to showcase in my application for an NRF Rating in the future. I consider these small accomplishments to be significant stepping stones in my academic and professional journey,” added Ningi.

According to the organisers of the conference, the awards are designed to recognise and celebrate professionals within the agricultural sector, while not forgetting those who helped them get there. These annual awards demonstrate and recognise excellence the sector has to offer and celebrate the ones who come out the best.

“The awards exemplify the hard work that our students and staff commit to. They also exemplify the innovation, timeous nature and application of the research being conducted to help solve pressing agricultural issues,” said Dr Sifiso Ntombela, AEASA President. “We trust that the information gathered through the course of these studies will go a long way to help to make agricultural practices even more effective,” he added.