Standard Bank Group has mobilised R3.45 billion towards climate-smart agriculture over the past year, as the financial institution strengthens its support for sustainable farming practices, climate resilience and food security across South Africa.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
The investment comes at a time when farmers are facing increasing pressure from erratic weather patterns, water scarcity and rising production costs, all of which are reshaping the way agricultural businesses operate.
“Farmers are already responding to the realities of climate change, but scaling these solutions requires access to the right kind of finance,” said Louis van Ravesteyn, Standard Bank Group Head of Agriculture.
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Supporting climate-smart farming solutions
The bank’s financing supports a range of climate-smart interventions, including water-efficient irrigation systems, renewable energy projects and regenerative agricultural practices.
According to Standard Bank, technologies such as precision agriculture, solar-powered infrastructure and data-driven crop management are helping farmers improve resource efficiency, reduce production risks and strengthen profitability.
The bank believes climate-smart agriculture is no longer only an environmental consideration but is becoming an important business strategy for farmers seeking long-term sustainability.
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Building resilience across the agricultural value chain
Directing capital towards climate-smart agriculture delivers benefits that extend beyond individual farming operations, said Boitumelo Sethlatswe, Standard Bank Head of Sustainability.
“Sustainable finance is ultimately about enabling real economy outcomes,” Sethlatswe said. “By directing capital towards climate-smart agriculture, we are supporting a transition that benefits producers, communities and ecosystems alike, while helping to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector.”
She added that climate-smart agriculture is an important component of a just transition, helping to ensure that efforts to address climate risks also protect livelihoods and promote inclusive growth. The bank noted that climate-smart farming practices contribute to reducing emissions, protecting natural resources and supporting biodiversity, while strengthening agricultural supply chains and rural economies.
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