By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
5 August 2026 – The Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane has expressed profound shock and sadness at the passing of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) representative to South Africa, Dr Babagana Ahmadu. Nkabane said the committee received news of Ahmadu’s passing during its meeting on Tuesday, where it is receiving briefings from Members of the Executive Councils (MECs) responsible for Agriculture on provincial interventions to contain Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).
“Upon receiving the news, members observed a moment of reflection in honour of Ahmadu’s contribution to agriculture and food security.
“The committee received news of Ahmadu’s passing with deep sorrow, describing his death as a loss not only to the FAO family but also to South Africa’s agricultural sector and the broader African continent,” she said.
Nkabane further said Ahmadu dedicated his career to advancing sustainable agriculture, strengthening food systems and supporting initiatives aimed at improving food security and rural development. She added that through the FAO, he worked closely with national and provincial governments, development partners and stakeholders across the agricultural sector to support programmes that improve the livelihoods of farming communities.
“The committee had come to appreciate the important contribution made by the FAO in supporting South Africa’s agricultural development agenda, particularly through technical cooperation, policy support and capacity-building initiatives.
“His passing comes at a time when South Africa continues to confront complex challenges facing the agricultural sector, including animal diseases, climate-related pressures and the imperative of ensuring food security,” said Nkabane.
She said Ahmadu’s contribution to these efforts will be remembered with gratitude. Nkabane conveyed the committee’s heartfelt condolences to Ahmadu’s family, colleagues at the FAO, the United Nations family and all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
The Guardian 