Agbiz has elected a new leadership team at the organisation’s 2026 Congress held in Gqeberha this week. During the congress, PG Strauss of VKB was appointed chairperson alongside Dr Lukeshni Chetty of the South African National Seed Organisation (SANSOR) and Francois Swanepoel of SSK as deputy chairpersons.
Speaking after his election, Strauss said and ensuring Agbiz continues to represent agribusiness interests effectively.
Chetty said the priority is to “support a competitive and sustainable operating environment for businesses across the sector”, while Swanepoel highlighted the need for “greater alignment within the industry to address shared challenges”.
Other appointments
The newly elected steering committee also includes Drs Boitshoko Ntshabele and Tobias Doyer, further strengthening the organisation’s governance structure.
In addition, Agbiz confirmed the appointment of member representatives Dewald Olivier of Red Meat Industry Services, Dr Thomas Funke of SA Canegrowers, Liesl Breytenbach of the Animal Feed Manufacturers’ Association, Dr Marlene Louw of the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation, and Piet Smit of Komati Group Holdings. These appointments serve to broaden representation within the organisation.
The appointments mark a leadership transition at Agbiz as the organisation continues to position itself as a key voice for agribusiness across South and southern Africa. – Press release (reworked)
