The Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba started with a bang with Minister Thoko Didiza setting the tone by urging farmers, both young and old, to be go-getters and use all the resources available to them to make their operations a success.
Didiza addressed hundreds, including farmers, agripreneurs and representatives from agricultural enterprises, stressing collaboration’s vital role, not just locally but across Africa. The indaba, held at Lavender Kontrei Market in Pretoria North, features a robust international delegation, including representatives from as far as Nigeria.
A worthy agricultural platform
“We appreciate what Food For Mzansi has done because it has unearthed many young people who might have not been known in the country, that they exist. But also what this Young Farmers Indaba has done; it’s actually removed the myth that young people are not interested in the agricultural sector.
“The indaba has also created a platform for young farmers to be exposed to one another, share experiences, learn from one another but at the same time appreciate the support system that are out there both from public and private sector. So this indaba plays a role of teaching farmers where to go,” she said.
Didiza urged farmers to take control of the whole value chain which would ensure they broaden their horizon and increase their market reach, especially in Africa.
Furthermore, the minister reminded farmers of the critical role they play in the sector, and assured them of the government’s support from provincial to national level.
“The centrality of the sector in the lives of communities in terms of food security is pivotal. Also it creates the much-needed jobs that young people, women, and people with disability need. Agriculture is the backbone of the economy of the country and we need young people to lead,” she said.
The road travelled
In a robust panel discussion with some of the country’s leading young farmers, Didiza called on farmers to pay key attention to compliance, especially in the livestock industry to combat animal diseases.
She said the government and other entities like Land Bank are working together to ensure funding for farmers becomes a reality. She added that the government is working around the clock to ensure that access to markets and land are not hindrances to farmers.
Food For Mzansi co-founders Ivor Price and Kobus Louwrens spoke about the growth of the indaba over the years and the impact it has on farmers.
“We started Food For Mzansi six years ago because we felt people needed to know more about how important agriculture is in every South African’s lives. We felt that it is a sector that touches everybody daily and also we felt there was a bit of misunderstanding about the sector.
“We went on a mission to tell people about the opportunities the sector can give to everyone, from careers to funding. We have dedicated ourselves to creating a new face of agriculture,” Louwrens said.
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