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Maart 2015
8
Recognising farming excellence
on all levels adds value
W
hilst grain producer excellence on farm level has
been recognised by Grain SA for many years, 2014
represented a year of change as the format of the
Grain Producer of the Year awards was expanded to
also include a category for subsistence farmers and one for
smallholder farmers. The latter categories now share the podium
with the New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year and the Grain
Producer of the Year.
SA Graan/Grain
asked each winner’s opinion
about what taking part in the adjudication meant for their farming
operations.
GRAIN SA
– producers awarded in 2014 give their views
ELMARIE HELBERG,
SA Graan/Grain
contributor
Enoch Khumalo
–
Grain SA
/Absa Subsistence Farmer of the Year
Mr Enoch Khumalo was a farm worker for about 30 years, mainly working with sheep and
cattle. He is now a maize farmer.
What is the key to your success?
Listen and learn – I joined Grain SA’s Donkerhoek study group a few years ago and
attended all the courses as well as all the meetings and lectures. I went back to my farm
and applied my knowledge. I farm scientifically, fertilisation recommendations are done
with soil analysis; weed control is excellent and done chemically. I plant suitable cultivars
and keep to the correct planting time and practices.
What value has the competition and the judging thereof
had for you and your farming operation?
I have the qualities to expand and it is here where the competition will be very valuable to
me. Everything I have done to this point has been with my own finances; I’ve received no
financial help from the government. I hope this award will enable me to get the help that
I need to expand my farming operation.
Katlego Maboe (master of ceremonies) leads the guests in singing the national anthem at last year’s Grain SA awards ceremony.
Enoch Khumalo