Farmworkers should be proud of their contribution to the agriculture sector, said Dawid Smit, chairperson of the Robertson Agricultural Association following Food For Mzansi’s special programme at the Robertson Lenteskou this week.
Held in the heart of Route 62 in the Western Cape, 240 workers from different wine and fruit farms gathered for a training session that went beyond practical skills – it sparked hope and ambition among them.
Smit thanked Food For Mzansi for conducting the session in a light-hearted and positive spirit.
“The cooperation from the workers who attended was excellent,” he said. “We’re very happy with the turnout. The programme went smoothly, and of course, the prize draw caused some fun excitement.”
He also highlighted the larger purpose of the day, noting the significance of farmworkers’ contributions to the food value chain.
“The food basket starts on the farm with the farmer and the worker. That’s where it all begins, and they should never feel ashamed of their status or where they come from. That message was communicated very well.
“We are thrilled that they received training on key aspects like financial management and were given guidance on budgeting, especially considering the income challenges they face,” he added.
Responsible pesticide management
One of the key presentations was delivered by André Erasmus, a technical specialist at InteliGro. His talk is part of a broader initiative by CropLife South Africa to raise awareness among workers about safe and sustainable pesticide use.
Erasmus focused on the critical issue of responsible pesticide management, a topic particularly relevant to farmworkers on the front lines of agricultural production. He highlighted common mistakes that can hinder the effectiveness of pesticide application, such as spraying during windy conditions or at inappropriate times of day.
The importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly and storing chemicals safely to prevent accidents and environmental contamination was also stressed by Erasmus.
“Farmworkers often overlook the correct use of PPE. Proper protection and awareness can make a significant difference in preventing chemical exposure.
“Additionally, chemicals that are not stored properly pose a serious risk, not just to workers, but to the surrounding environment,” Erasmus said.
Workers also received PPE safety kits, courtesy of BASF.
Empowering dreams
Meanwhile, Franco Williams, community development officer at the Western Cape department of agriculture, reflected on the value of the provincial Prestige Agri Awards, an event dedicated to celebrating farmworkers’ hard work and dedication.
He encouraged attendees to think beyond their current roles and to reach for bigger dreams.
“Never think less of yourself. You don’t have to be shy or embarrassed about being a farmworker. If you want to grow in your career, the opportunities are there.”
Related stories
- When the forklift stops, farmworker’s true talent comes alive
- Singing farmworker ready to take the Agri’s Got Talent stage
Financial literacy
The importance of financial literacy was also up for discussion with Dylan Deane, a senior learning facilitator at Old Mutual. He encouraged workers to take control of their financial futures and explained how understanding one’s financial plan is crucial for achieving long-term goals and dreams.
“One of the most important things is that people understand their financial plan and how it links to their financial goals and the dreams they have for their future,” Deane stated.
He went on to explain the impact of everyday financial decisions, whether it’s buying a car, a house, or even something as simple as a takeaway meal.
“These decisions can have a significant impact on your future. If those choices spiral out of control, you risk losing sight of your financial dreams and goals.”
Gaining fresh perspectives
Lea Lucas-Booysen, one of the Robertson-based workers attending the Food For Mzansi event, shared how the training session had given her fresh perspectives on financial management and farming techniques.
“The importance of financial budgeting really stood out for me. I think after today, I’ll approach my finances differently,” she said.
She also expressed her passion for farming, particularly in vineyard management, and how the session expanded her knowledge of pest and disease management. “There were many things I didn’t know, yet these are issues we deal with regularly on the farm,” she said.
READ NEXT: South Africa’s agricultural remedies phase-out explained
Sign up for Mzansi Today: Your daily take on the news and happenings from the agriculture value chain
