At the 2025 Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, a dynamic panel will dive into a pressing question: Can organised agriculture truly support new-generation farmers while bridging the divides within black farmer groups? Experts will debate the biggest challenges young and new-era farmers face, from securing land and funding to finding a stronger, united voice in the sector.
Leona Archary, CEO of the Agricultural Development Agency (Agda), will join the panel on Tuesday, 1 April at Lavender Kontrei Market in Pretoria North. She describes the annual Food For Mzansi event as a key opportunity for industry leaders, traditional farmers, and new-era farmers to work together in shaping South Africa’s agricultural future.
Nearly 1 800 people are now registered to attend the two-day Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba with very limited tickets still available on Quicket.
Archary explains that Agda plays a crucial role in supporting emerging farmers, particularly in overcoming historical challenges like access to land and financing.
“We facilitate access to funding through the developing Impact Fund, corporate social investment, and strategic partnerships – leveraging funding and expertise to increase impact and create opportunities for new entrants and the commercialisation of new black farmers,” she says.
Archary emphasises the importance of collaboration in transforming South Africa’s agricultural sector, especially in supporting black farmers’ commercialisation and sustainable development.
“Driving the integration of black farmers into commercial agriculture through priority commodity value chains, including livestock, grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and specialty crops – working in partnerships with established farmers and sector role players,” she says.
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Through these strategic pillars, Archary highlights how coordinated action and focused investment can reshape agricultural opportunities, ensuring a more inclusive and resilient industry for the future.
Joining Archary on the organised agriculture panel are Johann Kotzé, CEO of Agri SA; Dr Tobias Doyer, CEO of Grain SA; Karidas Tshintsholo, co-founder and CEO of Khula!; Bongani Msimang, COO of the African Farmers’ Association of South Africa; and Dr Siyabonga Madlala, executive chair of the SA Farmers’ Development Association (Safda).
Want to attend the welcome function?
After a full day of discussions and networking, the 2025 Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba will shift into celebration mode with an unmissable welcome function.
Attendees can look forward to a night filled with great food, epic beats, and a well-earned party in honour of the young farmers shaping the future of agriculture.
On Tuesday, 1 April, from 19:00 to 23:00, Food For Mzansi will host an evening where the energy will be high and the vibes unmatched. A DJ will take control of the decks, setting the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable night. A mouthwatering spit braai dinner will be served, and every guest will receive a complimentary first drink to kick off the festivities.
“This welcome function will be all about celebrating the next generation of farmers,” says Ivor Price, co-founder of Food For Mzansi. “After an inspiring first day, attendees will get the chance to relax, connect, and soak in the energy of this incredible movement. With nearly 700 daily attendees expected, we are set to break records. It’s going to be loads of fun!”
Click here for more details on this function.
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