Kitso Monyadi, co-founder of Botlhale Ba Rra-mmutla Farms in Pretoria, Gauteng, shares her inspiring journey from modest beginnings to leading a groundbreaking health and wellness enterprise producing hemp and skincare products.
In this episode of Farmer’s Inside Track, Monyadi highlights how her entrepreneurial vision, deeply rooted in indigenous knowledge and biodiversity, has turned her farm into a centre of innovation.
Botlhale Ba Rra-mmutla Farms focuses on sustainable agriculture, producing seasonal vegetables like spinach, as well as hemp, and layer chickens. The farm’s hemp plays a dual role: enhancing soil fertility and serving as the foundation for a range of innovative products.
Monyadi highlights the farm’s unique agro-processing initiatives: “We process the hemp into teas infused with botanicals for a flavourful taste. Recently, we launched a hemp gin – a blend that’s smooth on the palate, not bitter at all, and we’re perfecting the labelling.”
Beyond beverages, Monyadi’s collaboration with the University of Pretoria has birthed a personal care range that tackles skin issues such as acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
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A journey rooted in resilience
Monyadi’s agricultural journey began as a necessity after her mother’s passing. At just 22, she became the caregiver for her two younger siblings. “I started selling hard-bodied chickens as a side hustle. It began with word-of-mouth, and the business grew from there,” she recalls.
Despite financial hurdles, Monyadi’s determination led her to purchase the farm she now calls home. “The odds were against me, but you know, when God says yes, no one can say no,” she says.
In this episode, Monyadi also discusses:
- Why innovation in farming is important, and
- Her vision for the future.
Want to know more? Dive deeper into the episode and gain insights from the award-winning Farmer’s Inside Track, officially recognised as Africa and the world’s best podcast at the 2024 Digital Media Awards presented by WAN-IFRA, the global press organisation.
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