Control systems + automation
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Building resilient food supply chains in Southern Africa Across Southern Africa, food supply chains are operating under increasing strain. Climate volatility, infrastructure constraints, energy instability, rising input costs, and exposure to global trade disruptions are everyday operating pressures. Lourens Pieterse, Head of Sales, Bühler Southern Africa, says in this context, resilience has become just as important as efficiency in ensuring long-term food security.
Lourens Pieterse, Bühler Southern Africa.
R eliable equipment, smart automation, real-time monitoring, strong customer support, and skilled local talent all play a role in building a more sustainable and dependable food value chain. For decades, food systems have been built to maximise efficiency, scale, and affordability. Today, climate-related disruptions, energy shocks, and market volatility are exposing the structural fragilities of that model, which assumed relatively stable climate conditions, predictable energy supplies, and reliable global trade. To remain resilient and competitive, the systems need to be redesigned. Grain systems – from agriculture through silo storage to processing – are at the core of this shift, as they shape how shocks propagate – or are contained – across the food system. In volatile environments, milling and food processing operations constitute critical infrastructure for food security. Converting raw agricultural commodities into safe, storable, and transportable food, producers in the food system ensure reliable food availability. Effective processing reduces post-harvest losses, extends shelf life, and supports consistent quality, even when agricultural production or weather patterns are unpredictable. Strengthening resilience across the milling value chain requires a system-wide approach. Modern, reliable equipment is essential. Predictive monitoring to prevent unplanned downtime, improved storage to safeguard grain quality, and robust logistics are equally critical, as
they contribute to operational stability. Investing in local expertise through continuous training and closer collaboration among farmers, processors, and other supply chain partners is another key factor. Together, these measures enable mills to maintain safe, consistent food production where there may be external disruption. Reliable equipment, automation and process optimisation Innovation only strengthens resilience if it is adapted to local realities. In regions facing persistent energy and infrastructure constraints, solutions need to be practical, robust, and designed for operating conditions on the ground. In such environments energy-efficient equipment helps sustain output during power disruptions, and modular and scalable processing systems allow capacity to be adjusted as conditions change. Robust storage infrastructure protects raw materials and finished products, and digital tools built to function with limited connectivity ensure technology enhances resilience rather than introducing new vulnerabilities. Energy efficiency, automation, and process optimisation are directly linked to food security outcomes. Bühler’s energy- efficient grinding and processing technologies, combined with automated process control and digital monitoring solutions, help reduce operating costs and energy demand while maintaining consistent throughput. Advanced automation and quality control systems support food safety and product consistency. Data-driven optimisation of workflows and predictive maintenance services minimise waste and unplanned downtime. Together, these solutions help ensure that food production remains stable and reliable in challenging operating environments. Sustainability is central Sustainability is a prerequisite for stable food production. Reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring safe, high-quality output directly affect the availability and affordability of food. When combined with local training and technical support, sustainable solutions strengthen food systems and contribute to long-term food security. Critical aspects to ensure food safety and reduce waste are sometimes overlooked in discussions about resilience, yet they are fundamental to building a stable and nutritious food system. Across Africa, Bühler has supported food ‘fortification’ initiatives in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia, working with millers, governments, and development partners to integrate precise dosing, mixing, and quality control solutions into maize and wheat milling. These efforts help staple foods deliver essential micronutrients at scale.
As well as the value of reliable equipment and automated processing, Bühler recognises the importance of collaboration across the wider agricultural ecosystem.
6 Electricity + Control APRIL 2026
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