In the small town of Elliotdale, nestled in the Eastern Cape, Caciswa Mahashe has navigated the challenges of transitioning from a promising career in mechanical engineering to embracing her true calling in farming.
Growing food has been part of Mahashe’s upbringing. Her father, uTat’ Sivuyo Mahashe, in particular, played a significant role in shaping her interests and work ethic.
“My father used to teach us how to plant when we were young, and I loved it a lot,” she recalls. “I believe these early lessons in planting and cultivating the land planted a seed of passion that would later blossom into a full-fledged career.”
The call of the land
After matriculating, she pursued mechanical engineering at King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College, where she graduated in 2019. It seemed like a promising path, offering stability and a good income. However, despite her academic success and employment at a local Spar, something was missing.
While working at Spar, Mahashe could not shake her deep-rooted love for farming. The memories of working the land with her father kept resurfacing. Then, in October 2023, she took a bold step and planted cabbages, turning a long-held passion into a practical venture.
“When I saw that I could do this on my own, it felt empowering,” she shares.
With determination and hard work, Mahashe established Riri’s Farm, a one-hectare plot that has become her pride and joy. She started with cabbages and quickly expanded to other crops, selling her produce to local Spar outlets and schools.
“My farm not only provides fresh, healthy food to my community but also represents a dream realised through sheer dedication.
“By promoting my business through a dedicated Facebook page, I am able to connect with the community and build my customer base. Social media has become a valuable tool in my journey because it allows me to reach a broader audience and showcase the fruits of my labour,” she says.
Rising above challenges
However, farming without proper equipment is no easy task but her determination was unwavering. “It is not easy to farm without equipment but I do it because I want to make sure we have food on the table.”
Water supply is another critical issue. Inconsistent rainfall and inadequate irrigation systems pose a constant threat to her crops. However, Mahashe’s innovative spirit shines through as she explores various solutions to mitigate these challenges, such as rainwater harvesting and seeking assistance from local agricultural organisations.
Mahashe’s father remains a central figure in her journey. His mentorship and motivational support are invaluable.
“My father is my mentor; the motivation he gives me keeps me going. I remember the day we were together, sihlakula (weeding), and I was lazy. My father would throw amagade (small clods of soil) at us to keep us working. It taught me that we must be serious when it comes to work. If you start playing, you won’t finish.”
This lesson in perseverance and hard work has stayed with her, she says. “It has guided me through the many challenges of farming, despite the physical demands and the lack of resources.”
Future plans
Looking ahead, Mahashe has ambitious plans for Riri’s Farm. In the next five years, she aims to expand her farming operations significantly.
“I plan to acquire three to four additional plots of land and invest in essential farming equipment like tractors and water pipes,” she shares. “This expansion will not only increase my production capacity but also improve the efficiency and sustainability of my farming practices.”
Mahashe’s vision for the future includes diversifying her crops and exploring new markets. She is keen on introducing organic farming practices, recognising the growing demand for organic produce. By doing so, she hopes to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable food system.
READ NEXT: Boss moves put soil scientist Palesa on a path to success
Get Stories of Change: Inspirational stories from the people that feed Mzansi.
