Craig Murrell, head of rural development at Agri SA Enterprises, unveils a transformative vision, emphasising a three-fold approach that solves problems, simplifies funding, and invests in tomorrow. This strategic framework acts as a catalyst for sustainable change, urging partnerships for a shared future impact.
“We believe in transforming economies through agriculture, not that we want to make a farmer of everyone. We want to work with the brothers and sisters and cousins of agriculture.” These are the words of Craig Murrell, the head of rural development and advisory services at Agri SA Enterprises.
Speaking to Food For Mzansi, he shared insights into the organisation’s ambitious mission, strategic focus, and forthcoming initiatives aimed at empowering farmers and communities across South Africa.
Murrell opened the discussion by underlining the organisation’s commitment to transforming economies through agriculture. “We believe in transforming economies through agriculture,” he emphasised.
This transformative approach goes beyond the conventional notion of making farmers; instead, it involves collaborative efforts with various sectors such as mining, energy, and forestry, with the goal of positively impacting millions of lives and fostering economic development.
Creating lasting change
At the core of Agri SA Enterprises’ strategy is a three-fold approach, as outlined by Murrell. It is dedicated to “solving complex problems through advisory services, simplifying funding through corporate finance, and investing in tomorrow through rural development”.
This three-fold strategy underscores their commitment to addressing challenges, facilitating financial accessibility, and fostering future-oriented investments. Highlighting the significance of sustained efforts, he emphasised, “Impact is the result of long-term efforts compounded over years. You don’t achieve impact over a short period of time at all.”
This perspective underscores Agri SA Enterprises’ dedication to creating meaningful and lasting change rather than focusing on short-term outcomes. They have come a catalyst for change, adds Murrell. “Through investing in tomorrow, we’re a conduit for CSI and philanthropy investors to channel their investment into their target communities.”
Empowering programmes
The conversation with Food For Mzansi assistant editor Duncan Masiwa delved into specific programmes, shedding light on Agri SA Enterprises’ efforts to address pressing issues like unemployment, access to reliable electricity, and support for young business owners. Murrell highlighted the multifaceted nature of their initiatives, including employment, enterprise development, youth empowerment, women empowerment, and access to markets.
One standout programme discussed was the Nedbank agri-business incubator, designed to advance established agribusinesses towards commercialisation over a three-year period. Murrell provided insights into the programme’s objectives, underscoring the need for a strategic path to guide businesses in their journey towards commercial success.
Additionally, the Women in Farming programme, a collaborative effort with Momentum Metropolitan Foundation, was spotlighted. This entrepreneurial incubator aims to empower female farmers by providing funding and mentorship to nurture sustainable businesses. Murrell expressed his personal admiration for this initiative and called for additional funding partners to expand its impact.
Addressing the critical need for partnerships, he remarked, “If not us, then who? If not now, then when? Governments really got their hands full with everything going on in the country. If we don’t partner, if we don’t take hands, if we don’t join into these incredible partnerships, we think we can do it ourselves. We can’t.”
His emphasis on long-term impact underscored Agri SA Enterprises’ commitment to creating lasting change. “Impact is the result of long-term efforts compounded over years,” he stated, inviting potential partners to join their initiatives, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
The Farmer’s Inside Track podcast concluded with Murrell expressing his passion for working within an ecosystem of partners and colleagues, aligning with Agri SA Enterprises’ vision. As they continue their mission, the organisation welcomes collaboration, aspiring to make a profound and lasting impact on South Africa’s dynamic agricultural sector.
Murrell concluded saying, “I wish every South African could hear right now that you can be part of somebody’s future. If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.”
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