Phahama Grain Phakama (PGP), Grain SA’s dedicated developing farmer representative and support entity, has announced the appointment of Khomotso Mashiloane as chief executive officer.
Under Mashiloane’s leadership, PGP will focus on helping developing grain farmers progress towards productive, profitable and sustainable commercial farming enterprises.
Central to this direction is support tailored to farmers at different stages of development, with success measured by improvements in their farming businesses and stronger partnerships to expand access to finance, markets and opportunities.
A Proven Leader Grounded in Farmer Development
Welcoming the appointment, PGP chairperson Jeremia Mathebula said Mashiloane is bringing practical experience in farmer development and an understanding of how government and industry can work together to support farmers.
A proven leader grounded in farmer development
“We look forward to his leadership as we build on PGP’s foundation and strengthen our role as the voice of developing grain producers.
“Our priority remains clear: to help farmers turn their potential into productive, profitable and sustainable businesses that support their families, strengthen rural communities and contribute to South Africa’s food security,” Mathebula said.
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Addressing farmers, partners and industry representatives at PGP’s Day of Celebration recently, Mashiloane outlined an approach grounded in listening, building on the organisation’s strengths and addressing the practical barriers that limit farmer progress.
“As I take on this responsibility, my approach will be simple: listen, learn, understand and then strengthen,” he said.
According to Mathebula, Mashiloane brings experience in agricultural production, farmer development, technical advisory services and government stakeholder engagement. His career spans farm operations, roles at Obaro and Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), and work in the ministries of agriculture and water and sanitation.
Measuring impact beyond numbers
“This background combines an understanding of farmers’ practical challenges with experience in bringing government and industry stakeholders together to support agricultural development.
“His academic background in agriculture, coupled with his training as an educator and further professional development in project management and public administration, provides a strong foundation for his commitment to practical farmer development, capacity building and agricultural inclusive growth,” Mathebula said.
Speaking to the celebration’s theme, “Strengthen the foundation”, Mashiloane emphasised that farmer development must translate into measurable improvements in farming businesses.
He said PGP’s focus would extend beyond reporting activities and the number of farmers reached to demonstrating actual farmer progression, improved productivity and greater profitability. This will help farmers, funders and industry partners understand the difference that development support makes on the ground.
“We must also be able to demonstrate how many farmers progress because of our interventions,” he said.
Tackling water access and practical barriers
Mashiloane also identified water access and water-use licensing as concerns raised repeatedly by farmers during the day’s discussions. Drawing on his experience and relationships in the water sector, he committed to facilitating engagement with the relevant authorities and helping farmers navigate these challenges.
“I cannot promise that every challenge will be resolved overnight, but I can commit to ensuring that we engage the right people and pursue practical solutions.
“Because ultimately, food security begins with a farmer who is able to plant, produce and build a sustainable farming business,” he said.
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