Entries for the annual KwaZulu-Natal Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year competition have officially opened. They are inviting provincial farmers under the age of 40 to showcase their efforts in sustaining the nation’s food supply, health, and employment.
Participants stand a chance to win a brand new Toyota Hilux Single Cab in the national 2024 Toyota SA/Agri SA Young Farmer of the Year Awards later this year.
Awarding hard work
Kwanalu chief executive officer, Sandy La Marque, highlighted the importance of recognising young farmers amidst the demanding local challenges they have to navigate through.
“Recognising the innovative spirit and dedication of our province’s young farmers is not just about celebrating their achievements, but about igniting a flame of inspiration for aspiring farmers and the next generation to carry on the vital legacy of agriculture.
“As one of South Africa’s most diverse agricultural provinces, KwaZulu-Natal significantly contributes to essential food production both locally and internationally,” she said.
According to Kwanalu, the annual competition is open to all its member farmers under 40, regardless of their role, gender, commodity, or farm size.
“It recognises unique contributions in production, marketing, staff management, organised agriculture, community involvement, and forward-thinking agricultural practices.
“We welcome nominations from the public and industry stakeholders as we celebrate the future of KZN agriculture. Their stories deserve to be highlighted on the provincial and national stages as examples of what determination and passionate patriotism can achieve as an inspiration to us all,” La Marque said.
Kwanalu – the KwaZulu-Natal Agricultural Union – represents the rural and agricultural sectors in the province. Its viewpoints are based on submissions from its members, with a commitment to a sustainable and profitable future for agriculture within KwaZulu-Natal and greater South Africa.
Entries for the KZN Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year competition close on 2 August 2024. For more information to submit a nomination or to enter, visit www.kwanalu.co.za or call 033 342 9393.
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