Soya bean production ranks among the most popular grain crops in South Africa and when it comes to planted area and yield, soya bean offers both economic opportunities and essential nutritional resources. Over the years, the cultivation of soya bean has gained traction across various regions of the country, driven by its versatility, profitability, and the growing demand for plant-based protein sources.
OVERVIEW OF SOYA BEAN AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN SA
Africa's soya bean production is increasing fast – at a pace of about 7% annually – and is primarily due to an increase in the crop's cultivated area rather than yield. Over 35% of the continent's soya bean production is accounted for by South Africa, the top producer in Africa. Although all nine provinces in South Africa grow soya bean due to the commodity's high socioeconomic importance and many commercially available cultivars that are climate-adapted, the majority of the crop is produced in the Free State, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. In 2023, the total area planted was 1 148 300ha, which delivered a harvest of 2 755 300t, the highest yield experienced over the past five seasons. Although
