UK workshops in Cape Town benefit African food suppliers

The joint Sainsbury's conference and International Agri-Technology Centre (IATC) workshop were held in Cape Town last week to provide South African farmers and suppliers with a better understanding of the quality management needs and other requirements of UK retailers, as well as offering access to new technology and expertise, strengthening supply chains and boosting business partnerships. The event was well received, with much discussion around the sustainable food supply chain.

The IATC, the UK government's sector group, with the support of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), has joined UK supermarket chain Sainsbury's in an initiative to help Africa secure food resources. Commenting on the initiative, the UK trade commissioner to South Africa, Brian Gallagher said, "Agriculture is a sector high on our agenda in a climate where the issues of global food security are becoming widely discussed. The UK is well-equipped with the skills and expertise to identify and deliver solutions to the challenges facing food production in Africa."