Grain SA took time to celebrate farmers in different categories for the important work they do in the grain and wheat industry in an award ceremony held in Bothaville, Free State.
The event was attended by farmers in the maize and wheat commodity, captains of the industry, and financial aid institutions like Land Bank, Absa Bank, Standard Bank, Kgodiso Development Fund, John Deere and Hollard.
According to Grain SA, these developing farmers are some of the many who are always hard-working and committed to sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest and a brighter future for all.
Honouring excellence
Farmers in the grain industry play a vital role in feeding the world, showcasing incredible dedication and resilience through their labour.
The industry faces challenges such as climate change, infrastructure, crime and the need for sustainable farming practices, but ongoing innovations and government support aim to enhance productivity and resilience.
Standing in for the minister of agriculture was his special advisor Annette Steyn who spoke about the importance of agriculture and how important it was to ensure that the sector grows and creates jobs in all the commodities.
Free State farmer Petrus Ranko Tsotetsi contested with Luvuyo Mbutho and Bheki Mabuza in the Best New-era Commercial Farmer category and walked away with the main prize.
In the category of Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year, the finalists were Dieketseng Mahlelehlele, Zoliwe Nombewu, and Alfred Gondo, with Gondo winning the award.
Meanwhile, the chief executive officer of Grain SA, Dr Tobias Doyer, thanked all the sponsors and everyone who joined the event and congratulated all the nominees and winners. Doyer urged them to work hard and continue supplying South Africa with food despite the challenges they face.
Mhlangeqaba Mkizwana from the Eastern Cape won the Best Subsistence Farmer of the Year prize. Mandla Nkosi, Jim Masemola, and Buyisiwe Dhlamini were finalists in the category of Smallholder Farmer of the Year, with Masemola winning the award.
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