Langgewens Research Farm marks 100 years of agricultural research

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, alongside Dr Mogale Sebopetsa (Head of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture), departmental officials, and key agricultural sector stakeholders, unveil the official centenary plaque during the 100th-anniversary celebration of the Langgewens Research Farm. The landmark event commemorated a century (1926–2026) of scientific research, innovation, and farmer support in the Western Cape.

Western Cape Agriculture Minister Dr Ivan Meyer joined researchers, farmers, and officials to commemorate the centenary of the Langgewens Research Farm, marking 100 years of continuous scientific experimentation and agricultural innovation in the Western Cape.

It was purchased by the department in 1926. The farm is a premier South African dryland facility researching grain, conservation, soil health, and climate resilience.

At the event, Meyer gave the keynote address, unveiled the centenary plaque with Head of Department Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, and launched the commemorative publication, A Century of Soil, Science and Seasons: 1926-2026.

Meyer said: “Today we celebrate far more than a milestone in years. We celebrate generations of researchers, agri-workers, technicians, students, producers and partners whose dedication has built Langgewens into a cornerstone of agricultural innovation in the Western Cape.” 

“Langgewens demonstrates the value of long-term public agricultural research. The solutions to challenges such as climate adaptation, sustainable production and food security require decades of scientific commitment and collaboration,” he added.

Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer (center), alongside Dr Mogale Sebopetsa, Head of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (left), and an official display copies during the launch of the commemorative publication, A Century of Soil, Science and Seasons: 1926–2026, marking 100 years of agricultural innovation and scientific research at Langgewens Research Farm.

Located in the Swartland grain region, Langgewens advances conservation agriculture to boost soil health, water efficiency, and risk reduction. Its long-term trials offer practical solutions for regional farmers.

The impact of the farm’s work is reflected in the experiences of producers who have worked closely with Langgewens over many years.

Andries Theron, a farmer from Koringberg, said: “Research into minimum tillage transformed farming practices in the region and continues to have a positive impact on my business.”

The event emphasised the long-standing partnership between Langgewens and the Swartland Small-grain Development Group (SKOG). 

Through demonstration plots, information days, and farmer engagement, SKOG and researchers have bridged science and practice, accelerating the adoption of sustainable and conservation agriculture across Swartland.

Agri Western Cape CEO Jannie Strydom praised the facility's value to agriculture, highlighting Langgewens as a dependable origin of field-based studies for one of South Africa's primary grain-producing areas.

Dr Litha Magingxa, President and CEO of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), said: “The institution honours the researchers, technicians, staff, and producers who helped make Langgewens a premier South African agricultural research platform.”

Meyer noted that Langgewens's research aligns with the Western Cape Government's Growth for Jobs Strategy, enhancing agricultural competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience.

He highlighted that its enduring impact is evident in the enhanced soil quality, increasingly adaptable agricultural practices, and strengthened economic stability within rural communities throughout the Western Cape.

“Langgewens is well-positioned to tackle future challenges with science-based solutions for resilient, profitable farming. As we honour its 100-year history, we remain committed to advancing the next century of agricultural innovation,” said Meyer.