As South Africa gears up to assume leadership of the G20 in 2025, the country’s focus on agricultural reform is gaining momentum—with sustainability at the core. At the forefront of this shift is First National Bank (FNB), whose financing innovations are helping grain farmers embrace climate-smart practices that secure both environmental health and long-term agricultural resilience.
Championing Sustainability Ahead of the G20
“Agriculture sits at the heart of food security, rural development, and the sustainable management of natural resources,” says Gert Breet, Sustainable Agriculture Lead at FNB Commercial. “The sustainability of South African farms is essential not only for environmental protection but for ensuring long-term agricultural yields and food security.”
FNB believes the path to a sustainable agricultural future requires a multi-stakeholder approach—including government, financial institutions, and the farming community. This collaboration is vital for scaling up conservation practices such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, regenerative techniques, and precision agriculture, which reduce the environmental footprint without compromising productivity.
Dual-Impact Financial Tools
FNB’s agriculture offering is grounded in a dual-impact philosophy—supporting farmers financially while simultaneously enhancing ecological outcomes. Through its alliance with WesBank, FNB provides financing for advanced, sustainability-oriented equipment such as precision sprayers, harvesters, and planters. The bank also offers long-term funding solutions and working capital to support day-to-day operations.
One of FNB’s flagship products is the Sustainable Agriculture Loan, launched at Nampo 2024, designed to finance infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy installations, irrigation systems, protective netting, and other capital investments that promote environmental sustainability.
“This loan is more than a financial tool—it’s a commitment to the future of farming,” Breet explains. “It helps farmers invest in practices that improve climate resilience and productivity while reducing the need for non-renewable resources.”
Expanding Access to All Farmers
Importantly, FNB’s support is not limited to large-scale commercial operations. The Sustainable Agriculture Loan is accessible to a wide spectrum of producers, from emerging farmers to well-established agribusinesses.
“We’ve streamlined the process and broadened eligibility to ensure all farmers—regardless of size—can benefit from investments in sustainable agriculture,” says Breet. “From solar power and water-saving irrigation to climate-friendly infrastructure, we’re enabling lasting transformation across the sector.”
Partnering for Change
FNB’s efforts are strengthened by industry partners such as Grain SA, a key advocacy body helping grain producers transition to sustainable practices. Dr Dirk Strydom, Managing Director at Grain SA, underlines the urgency of adopting environmentally responsible production models.
“With our diverse climate and soil conditions, it is crucial to implement sustainable systems that also ensure profitability,” says Strydom. “This transformation requires access to suitable financial products, and FNB’s loan is a step in the right direction.”
Strydom notes that the path to sustainable agriculture is a long-term journey, and the support of aligned partners is essential for success.
Beyond Finance: Embedded Support
What sets FNB apart is its value-added approach—combining funding with expert guidance. The bank leverages a nationwide network of agricultural finance specialists and relationship managers, offering advisory services to farmers adopting new production systems.
“Through our tailored approach, we walk the journey with our clients,” Breet says. “It’s not just about lending money; it’s about fostering resilient, forward-thinking agricultural businesses.”
A Greener Future Rooted in Finance
With the world watching as South Africa steps into its G20 leadership role, FNB’s proactive stance on sustainable agriculture demonstrates how finance can fuel transformation. As demand for food grows and climate risks intensify, climate-smart farming is no longer optional—it’s imperative.
By embedding sustainability into the financial ecosystem of agriculture, FNB is helping to future-proof farming, nurture ecosystems, and ensure that South African agriculture continues to feed the nation and the world—responsibly and resiliently.