Achieving the level of success Zimbili Mfusi has reached in her agricultural career, demands innovation and a willingness to challenge conventional norms.
Mfusi farms with organic vegetables, breed four different kinds of livestock, and has an impressive agro-processing facility. She does all this in a peaceful valley, surrounded by panoramic views in Wakkerstroom, Mpumalanga.
In 2021, Mfusi ventured into agriculture with a determined spirit and knowledge passed down by her grandmother and mother.
“My grandmother always said, ‘You see everyone driving on the freeway, but remember everyone has their destination to reach’. I knew that I wanted to be in the farming business, but I had to think beyond primary agriculture and though my business is still small, I have dreams to grow,” she explains.
Growing organic
Her agricultural journey started with a small amount of cows, goats, sheep, and pigs. All gifts from her mother.
Today, she has increased her livestock and also has an impressive agro-processing business where she produces sauces, bacon, and boerewors.
“I process from my farm to avoid wastage on my land. I plant my herbs to process the spices and use the vegetables on my farm to process the sauce.
“I do have a small storeroom that I use to process the sauces and spices. With the meat, I take it to an abattoir and that is where I process my meat into bacon and boerewors,” she says.
Mfusi has made a decision not to sell to the formal market, although she plans to one day. For now, the informal market has served her well.
“The business is growing. I sell about 300 products minimum per month and 500 maximum, but the future looks bright to expand.”
Challenges as a woman in agriculture
One of the biggest challenges for Mfusi is not being taken seriously in a male-dominated industry, she shares.
At times when she pushes forward, it feels to her like she is taking 100 steps back. “It is frustrating. Most people don’t take you seriously when it comes to this industry.
“You are undermined and that is very challenging. I am still stumbling. This journey is hard. I have to stay in my lane and focus on my path.”
However, despite this, she remains steadfastly focused on her journey, unwavering in her determination to reach her destination and achieve her goals.
Her tips for people who want to venture into agro-processing:
- Secure your land.
- Focus on your goals, mission, and vision.
- Become financially stable.
- Relationship building is important in the industry.
- Remain true to yourself on your journey.
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