Indaba celebrates the future of agriculture

June 2025

NOLO BAKWA, COMMUNICATIONS AND PR OFFICER, GRAIN SA

THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE IN SOUTH AFRICA LIES IN THE HANDS OF THE NEXT GENERATION OF FARMERS, AGRIPRENEURS AND INDUSTRY LEADERS. AT THE HEART OF THIS TRANSFORMATION IS THE FOOD FOR MZANSI YOUNG FARMERS INDABA, A DYNAMIC PLATFORM THAT BRINGS TOGETHER YOUNG, PASSIONATE INDIVIDUALS EAGER TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE.

This indaba serves as a vital meeting point for the brightest minds in the agricultural sector, where ideas are exchanged, networks are formed and innovation is ignited. As a proud exhibitor, Grain SA was on the ground, engaging with the vibrant energy of the youth, who are set to drive sustainability and innovation within the agricultural sector.

BRIDGING THE DIVIDE FOR NEW ERA FARMERS
One of the standout moments of the event was Day 2, when the chief executive officer of Grain SA, Dr Tobias Doyer, participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion titled ‘Can organised agriculture bridge the divide for new-era farmers?’

This discussion was timely and urgent, given the growing challenges young farmers face in South Africa today. Issues such as limited access to land, financial constraints and fragmented representation within farmer organisations are significant obstacles that prevent many developing farmers from reaching their full potential. 

Dr Doyer’s participation in this discussion was a powerful demonstration of Grain SA’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive, sustainable agricultural sector. The panel explored not only the barriers young farmers face but also how organised agriculture can help bridge the divide between developing farmers and established players in the industry. The need for collaboration, mentorship and innovative solutions was at the core of the conversation.

Pula was on display and a very popular choice for the attendees.

THE ROLE OF ORGANISED AGRICULTURE
At the heart of Dr Doyer’s contribution was the critical role that organised agriculture can play in ensuring that new era farmers have the tools, resources and support they need to succeed. He emphasised that securing a place in the grain sector is not solely about acquiring land. In today’s agricultural landscape, it is just as crucial for young farmers to engage with the broader agricultural system and take advantage of the existing support structures. These structures include access to technology, market opportunities, financial support and extensive networking possibilities.

Dr Doyer highlighted that the strength of organised agriculture lies in its ability to provide young farmers with the networks and resources that are necessary for their growth. The agricultural sector is evolving rapidly, and developing farmers must be equipped with the tools to navigate this changing landscape. This requires securing land and ensuring that those farmers have access to cutting-edge technology, training and the networks that can lead to new opportunities.

Access to technology is a game changer for young farmers. Innovations in farming equipment, digital platforms for managing crops and livestock, and data-driven insights are crucial for improving efficiency and sustainability in farming practices. As a key player in the agricultural sector, Grain SA is dedicated to ensuring that young farmers are not left 
behind when embracing these technological advancements.

The team from Grain SA – Nolo Bakwa and Jean Adams – was ready to share information with visitors at the Grain SA exhibition.

COLLABORATION AND ACTION
While policy reform is essential for addressing some systemic barriers young farmers face, Dr Doyer and other panellists agreed that bridging the divide requires more than just changes on paper. It is about taking decisive action. The agricultural sector must be willing to collaborate, share resources and open doors to ensure that developing farmers can access the opportunities they deserve.

One of the key messages from the panel was that collaboration is the key to success. The sector needs to come together across the government, industry bodies and farmer organisations to create an ecosystem where developing farmers are supported at every step. Whether through financial support, mentorship, access to markets or guidance on agricultural best practices, the sector must ensure that young farmers are not navigating their journey alone.

Dr Doyer also highlighted the importance of inclusivity in these efforts. ‘To truly empower the next generation, we must ensure that all farmers, regardless of their background or where they come from, have a seat at the table,’ he said. This sentiment was echoed by other panellists, who stressed that empowering young farmers means giving them a voice in shaping the future of agriculture.

ONGOING SUPPORT FOR DEVELOPING FARMERS
Grain SA’s commitment to the growth of developing farmers is a cornerstone of the organisation’s mission. Through various initiatives, including training programmes, mentorship opportunities and research, Grain SA is actively working to support young farmers as they navigate the challenges of modern agriculture. The organisation understands that for young farmers to succeed, they need more than just access to land – they need access to resources, networks and ongoing development.

The Farmer Development Programme (FDP) of Phahama Grain Phakama (PGP) is designed to equip developing farmers with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. It covers a wide range of topics, from business management and financial planning to sustainable farming practices and new technologies. By offering these opportunities, Grain SA helps young farmers to build the confidence and competence they need to succeed in a competitive agricultural landscape.

Moreover, Grain SA works closely with industry partners, government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that young farmers have access to the support they need to overcome their challenges. Whether navigating the complexities of land reform, securing financing or gaining access to markets, Grain SA is at the forefront of ensuring that developing farmers are empowered to succeed.

Johann Kotzé, chief executive officer of Agri SA, Leona Archery from the Agricultural Development Agency and Dr Tobias Doyer from Grain SA participated in a discussion about the role of organised agriculture.

A SHARED VISION FOR THE FUTURE
This event celebrated the future of agriculture. The enthusiasm, passion and drive of the young farmers at the indaba were profound, and it was clear that the next generation is ready to take on the challenges of modern agriculture. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, Grain SA remains committed to supporting those young, dynamic agripreneurs as they work to build a sustainable, innovative and prosperous future for agriculture in South Africa.

Through collaboration, action and a shared commitment to inclusivity, Grain SA is proud to be a partner in this journey. The future of agriculture is in capable hands, and with the continued support of organisations like Grain SA, the next generation of farmers will have the tools, knowledge and networks they need to thrive. 

Publication: June 2025

Section: Pula/Imvula