In a move set to accelerate digital transformation in South Africa’s farming sector, agri-tech platform Khula! has joined forces with Kagiso Trust to launch a nationwide support programme for 500 farmers.
Through Kagiso Trust’s Tyala Impact Fund, the initiative will equip farmers with the tools, financial insights, and market access they need to grow sustainable agribusinesses. Over the coming months, 50 sessions will be hosted across key agricultural regions – from Limpopo to the Northern Cape – focusing on financial readiness, production improvements, and compliance with market standards.
According to Ayanda Vana, chief operating officer at Khula!, the partnership aims to bridge one of the biggest divides in agriculture: access.
“For too long, smallholder and emerging farmers have struggled to tap into the same digital and financial ecosystems as larger operations. This collaboration is about leveling that field,” she said.
Digital farming solutions
Vana added that Khula!’s AI-powered monitoring tools will play a key role in the rollout.
“Technology has the potential to radically improve how farmers plan, produce, and sell. With Kagiso Trust’s support, we can now reach more farmers than ever and give them access to practical, affordable digital solutions that make sense for their realities.”
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Dr Mankodi Moitse, chief executive officer of Kagiso Trust, said the initiative underscores the organisation’s commitment to inclusive rural growth. She believes agriculture remains “one of the most powerful levers for unlocking South Africa’s economic potential.”
“By working with Khula!, we are investing in the farmers who feed our nation; those who sit at the heart of food security and rural development,” she explained. “What excites us most is that this partnership ensures that access to technology is not just for a few commercial players, but available to every farmer, regardless of their scale or enterprise.”
For Quinton Naidoo, head of socio-economic development at Kagiso Trust, affordability remains a major barrier for many emerging producers.
“Technology often doesn’t reach new-era farmers because it’s either too expensive or designed for conditions far removed from their context,” he said. “Through this programme, we’re changing that by putting simple, effective tools directly into their hands – so that tech becomes a bridge, not a barrier.”
Together, Khula! and Kagiso Trust are building what they describe as a “connected ecosystem” – one that integrates technology, finance, and market access to help farmers become more competitive and resilient. Farmers who would like to participate in the programme can register their interest via this form: https://forms.gle/gsVBBsMnDfbkFCTA7
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