With Mzansi’s agricultural sector struggling, more and more farmers are realizing the importance of partnerships. Buchule Jack, the chief financial officer of Amiline (PTY) Ltd in Bothaville, Free State is one such farmer.
The former Johannesburg investment manager joins Food For Mzansi co-founders Ivor Price and Kobus Louwrens on the Farmers Inside Track podcast this week.
In the podcast he reflects on his partnership with a white farming family while sharing practical tips about forming partnerships. Jack explains that although they come from different backgrounds, their differences have not affected their business. “The vision we have for the farm is the same. We want to empower the community, ourselves and the family,” Jack says.
Jack believes that trust, honesty and respect have been huge contributors to their success. And that everyone in the partnership must be clear about the goal and vision of the enterprise.
“It’s easier when the plan is written down instead of winging it. We are on board with what we want to do, regarding expanding and how to increase the value of the farm.
The farmer also shares their vision for Amiline. Turning the enterprise into a “mega farming operation” and owning the whole value chain from soil preparation all the way to the market, is what they plan to do.
Besides his business outlook Jack is also heavily invested in building the community where he currently farms. “We want Amiline to mean “community” and employ people from the area and provide the kids with school clothes and shoes,” he says.
- Would you like to feature on the Farmer’s Inside Track podcasts and videos series? Send us a WhatsApp on +27 81 889 9032 or visit www.farmersinsidetrack.co.za. Farmer’s Inside Track is proudly brought to you by Food For Mzansi, Africa’s Best Digital News Start-up. Advertisers who wish to explore opportunities on any of the Farmer’s Inside Track channels can e-mail ivor@foodformzansi.co.za and kobus@foodformzansi.co.za.
