The upcoming Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, scheduled for 14 and 15 June at the FNB Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, is poised to ignite crucial conversations surrounding the role and future of black farmer development organisations in South Africa.
Facilitated by the dynamic Unati Speirs, a panel consisting of different organisations will explore their viability and effectiveness in advancing commercialisation and market opportunities. They will also critically assess the challenges that black farmer development organisations encounter, including limited access to finance, land, markets, and technical support.
The Black Agricultural Commodities Federation (BACF) will be presented by Dr Moshe Swartz, its chief executive. Also participating is African Farmers’ Association of South Africa (Afasa) chief executive Thandeka Mbassa, National African Farmers’ Union (Nafu) president Motsepe Matlala, and South African Farmers Development Association (Safda) chief executive Dr Siyabonga Madlala.
INDABA TICKETS: Click here to book your seat at a discounted rate
#SoilSistas take centre stage
Organisers say the indaba will furthermore provide a platform to evaluate the progress and obstacles faced by women in agriculture. Led by journalist Lindi Botha, the #SoilSistas panel will feature farmers and agripreneurs who benefitted from a year-long blended development programme presented by Corteva Agriscience and GIBS Entrepreneurship Academy.
Junior Perekwa, Ngwanaranchuene Mampane, Phiwokuhle Shabangu, Ika Cronje, and Mbali Ngcobo’s experiences and insights will fuel a critical examination of the strides made toward gender equality in the agricultural sector.
The discussion will address the persistent gender-based challenges, such as unequal access to resources, discriminatory practices, and limited market opportunities. Panellists will delve into strategies to dismantle these barriers, foster inclusive policies, and empower women in agriculture.
Last-minute tickets for the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba are still available, but organisers warn that seats are filling up fast. Tickets can be bought online, and includes access to the welcome and cocktail function on the evening of Wednesday, 14 June, as well as all lunches, a goodie bag and access to a dedicated exhibition area.
INDABA TICKETS: Click here to book your seat at a discounted rate
