@WandileSihlobo

Who Is This Person?

Wandile Sihlobo is a South African agricultural economist, author, and commentator specializing in agricultural policy, production, trade, and economic trends. He is the Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), where he analyzes market conditions, advises on policy, and engages with stakeholders. Sihlobo has authored books including 'A Country of Two Agricultures' (2023), which examines South Africa's dual agricultural economy and inclusivity challenges. His recent activities in 2025 include writing columns for Business Day on topics like SACU collaboration, rural development beyond agriculture, and leveraging scientific expertise; participating in engagements with KwaZulu-Natal farmers and agribusinesses; commenting on global grains and oilseeds outlooks; and advocating for the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan. He also maintains an active newsletter and blog on his website, focusing on current agricultural uncertainties, such as U.S.-South Africa trade dynamics and poultry market inquiries.

Wandile Sihlobo is a highly credible expert in agricultural economics, bolstered by his leadership role at Agbiz, authorship of well-received books, and regular contributions to mainstream media. His content is consistently factual, data-driven, and free of major controversies or disputes, with no evidence of misinformation or ethical lapses. While his perspectives emphasize pro-growth policies for South African agriculture, they remain balanced and inclusive, avoiding overt partisanship. Overall, he is a reliable source for agricultural insights, particularly in policy and market analysis, with strong verification through professional affiliations and public engagements.

Assessment by Grok AI

What's Their Track Record?

Sihlobo has a strong track record of accuracy and credibility, drawing on data from official sources like the International Grains Council and South African government reports. He is frequently cited in reputable publications such as Business Day and Forbes Africa for evidence-based analyses on agricultural statistics, land ownership, and market trends. No previous fact-checks, corrections, or retractions have been identified in searches; his commentary, including clarifications on misconceptions like agricultural land ownership, is presented transparently and aligns with verified data. Occasional critiques, such as his 2024 post on 'Karoo lamb' food fraud, highlight ethical issues without personal controversy.