As South Africa has marked Disability Pride Month this July, the DairyRise Project of the Agricultural Research Council Animal Production (ARC-AP) shared the inspiring story of a smallholder farmer from North West, whose tenacity is demonstrating that disability is no barrier to agricultural success.
The farmer, who lives with a physical disability that affects his mobility, is among the beneficiaries of the DairyRise Project. Despite daily challenges, he continues to build and improve his farming enterprise while embracing every opportunity to learn and grow. His journey highlights the importance of inclusive agricultural support and access to development programmes that empower all farmers to reach their full potential.
No limits, just determination
The DairyRise Project began rolling out key services to registered farmers, including milk sample collection, milk quality monitoring and technical support. During one of these routine farm visits, the project team met a farmer whose resilience and commitment left an everlasting impression.
As part of the programme, the team visited his farm to perform regular routine practices of the DairyRise scheme, such as collecting milk samples, providing feedback on milk quality, production practices and farm management. The personalised support ensures that he receives the same prospects as other farmers while considering his unique needs.
His story mirrors that of several South Africans who have overcome adversity to succeed in agriculture. Among them is Realeboga Mangwegape, a double amputee from Taung who built a thriving livestock enterprise despite losing both legs. Like Mangwegape, this DairyRise beneficiary demonstrates that success in farming is not determined by physical ability, but by perseverance, passion and a willingness to learn.
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For him, farming is more than a livelihood; it is proof that obstacles can be overcome with the right support system and mindset.
His message to fellow farmers is both simple and powerful: “Do not give up. Whether you have a disability or not, the knowledge is there, and the support is there through the ARC-AP, DairyRise. All you need is the willingness to learn and the determination to keep going.”
The DairyRise Project continues to demonstrate how inclusive agricultural development can transform lives and strengthen rural communities. By ensuring that farmers of all backgrounds and abilities have access to training, technical assistance and milk recording services, the initiative is helping unlock the potential of South Africa’s smallholder dairy sector.
As Disability Pride Month reminds us of the value of inclusion and equal opportunity, stories like this serve as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when determination meets support. Through programmes such as DairyRise, the future of agriculture is becoming more inclusive, productive and accessible, ensuring that no farmer is left behind.
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