Imagine a weekend of farmers camping under the stars, chatting about everything from livestock to markets. That’s the vibe at Nature Nation Camp, an exciting fusion of agritourism and farming knowledge.
Farmers from across North West and Gauteng recently descended on the Faan Meiintjies Nature Reserve in Klerksdorp for an event filled with networking, learning, and fun. The three-day event included a bushwalk, fireside chats, and practical knowledge-sharing.
This year’s agritourism edition also welcomed farmers from as far as Botswana, and founder Mmadipilo Letlape said they hope Namibia will join next year.
Letlape noted that the initiative started with her wanting to merge her background in agriculture with event planning.
“I wanted to start a farmers’ market, but it didn’t work out. Two years later, I was able to fuse the farmers’ market and camp together. It’s growing day by day, but I’m hoping it will be one of the biggest agricultural events in South Africa,” she said.
For Letlape, the magic lies in its multi-purpose format. “We don’t just come here to listen, we come to network and socialise. You get to meet farmers in different agri-industries and learn from each other. And it’s also a platform to sell their produce through the farmers’ market.”
A new way to farm and connect
When Nature Nation Camp Farmers’ Market kicked off, it wasn’t about business plans or budgets, explains Henry Gibbs, co-founder and one of the driving forces behind the initiative.
“So the idea when this thing started, we had intentions of just chilling, as farmers. We’ve got nine provinces and everyone farms different things… we actually bring young farmers together,” he said.
What started as a simple weekend of relaxation evolved into something impactful. Farmers come together to learn from each other, share challenges, and over time, Nature Nation introduced farming experts to the mix.
“Sometimes you don’t have access to someone, but now, because they’re at the camp, you get to engage with them, exchange numbers, and get direct access,” Gibbs explained.
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Contracts, conservation, and cash
The camp doesn’t shy away from serious conversations. Legal expert Pearl Gibbs joined this year’s lineup with a powerful reminder that sometimes farmers underestimate the importance of labour law.
“Too many farmers work with people informally, with no written contracts, which can spell serious legal trouble,” she explained.
She also spoke about illegal occupiers and how farmers should protect themselves. “The Basic Conditions of Employment Act No. 75 of 1997 allows a farmer to deduct 10% from the wages. This is for the food and accommodation the farmer may provide on a consistent and regular basis. Now, if a farmer includes that in the contract, it’s clear that the farmworker [can] stay on the property provided that they are employed by the farmer.”
Sustainability was also part of the discussions with Dr Terra Ramakatsa from the North West Parks and Tourism Board offering a crash course in eco-smart farming. From soil and water conservation to creating habitats for pollinators.
“By considering these factors, farmers can balance production goals with conservation objectives, promoting sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.”
He also highlighted money-making opportunities in conservation. “Farmers can host tourists and educate them about sustainable agriculture, generating income through tour fees and sales of local products,” said Ramakatsa.
Organisers of the agritourism initiative promise that the next camp will be even bigger and better than before. Visit their website page for more information.
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