Food For Mzansi, in partnership with Land Bank, invites friends of the agriculture sector to participate in a series of thought-provoking lunchtime conversations next week at Grain SA’s 2023 Nampo Harvest Day.
The free midday talks, which include a light lunch, aim to provide valuable insights and information on various aspects of agricultural finance and the bank’s future. The sessions will take place at the Food For Mzansi tent, located at gate 2 of Nampo Park in Bothaville, Free State.
The conversations will be led by Food For Mzansi co-founder and editor-in-chief, Ivor Price. He says this presents a rare opportunity for farmers of all scales to engage with Land Bank and gain valuable knowledge and insights that can help take their farming operations to new heights.
Price adds, “We’re excited because the lunchtime conversations promise to provide practical information, clarify misconceptions, and shed light on the future plans of Land Bank. We invite people to be part of the conversation that will help shape the future of agricultural finance in South Africa.”
Blended finance
On Tuesday, 16 May, from 13:00 to 14:00, the discussion will focus on blended finance. This session offers an excellent opportunity for small- and medium-scale farmers considering applying at Land Bank.
Panellists include political analyst Dr Piet Croucamp, farmer SP Letsitsa, and Brendan Baatjies, a commercial banker at Land Bank. Baatjies understands the unique challenges faced by new-era farmers and agripreneurs and will provide guidance on navigating the application process and making informed decisions. The discussion will cover eligibility requirements, the application process, and the benefits of blended finance.
WANT TO ATTEND? Click here to reserve your seat
Meet the new Land Bank CEO
On Wednesday, 17 May, from 13:00 to 14:00, Nampo attendees will have a chance to meet Themba Rikhotso, the new CEO of Land Bank. Rikhotso will share his vision for the future of the development bank and discuss how Land Bank aims to empower farmers across the country.
Also on the panel are Agri SA executive director Christo van der Rheede and Leona Archary, chief executive of Agda. This session offers invaluable insights into Land Bank’s strategic plans and the opportunities it presents for the agricultural sector. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with other industry professionals and gain a deeper understanding of the future of agricultural finance in South Africa.
WANT TO ATTEND? Click here to reserve your seat
Get to know Land Bank better
Join us on Thursday, 18 May, from 13:00 to 14:00 for an informative session focused on understanding Land Bank better. Our panel of experts will shed light on Land Bank’s inclusive approach towards supporting farmers from various backgrounds.
On the lineup is Sydney Soundy, executive manager for strategy and communications, and acting executive manager for commercial development and business banking at Land Bank. He will be flanked by Free State farmer Frans Mokoena.
During this session, we will showcase Land Bank’s commitment to empowering both established and up-and-coming farmers. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear inspiring stories directly from farmers who have benefited from Land Bank’s financial solutions and guidance. Additionally, industry insiders with extensive knowledge of the agricultural sector will share valuable insights.
WANT TO ATTEND? Click here to reserve your seat
- Attendance at the lunchtime conversations is free of charge for all Nampo Harvest Day attendees. Simply visit the Food For Mzansi tent at gate 2 of Nampo Park in Bothaville during the specified timeslots to join the discussions.
