Navigating the effects of load shedding on agricultural productivity and food security: a case study of South Africa

Eskom's electricity generation can't satisfy rising demand. Eskom's installed capacity of 52,000 MW surpasses production of 47,000 MW, a large discrepancy. Eskom uses voluntary load shedding to address this gap and protect the national grid. A desk review study on power outages' socio-economic effects on South African agriculture and food security is presented in the paper. The study also assessed electricity supply and load shedding legislation. Power outages have disrupted farming activities, from irrigation to food processing, and farmers' capacity to maintain production levels. This has caused crop losses, livestock production reductions, and food distribution delays. Thus, food costs have risen, worsening food insecurity, especially for disadvantaged groups. Focussing on agricultural production and energy supply, the study proposed evidence-based solutions and suggestions to lessen load shedding's detrimental effects on South Africa's food systems and improve food security for all.