Former engineer Lebogang Muthumuvhi embraces her farming roots, excelling in chicken farming amid supply challenges. Selected for the Corteva Agriscience programme, she remains resilient, emphasising the importance of women supporting each other for success.
After resigning from her engineering job, #SoilSista Lebogang Muthumuvhi knew that her roots would lead her back to agriculture. Having grown up in a village where life centred on cultivating crops, it was only natural that farming became her primary source of income, ensuring the table was abundantly supplied with food.
Muthumvhi specialises in chicken farming, from broilers to layers in Pretoria, Gauteng. She now also joined the Corteva Agriscience Women Agripreneur Programme, fulfilling her goals one step at a time.
“My journey in farming started in 2020. When I decided to quit my job, I looked at what else I could do to put food on the table, and farming was one thing I could think of,” she expresses.
In a Food For Mzansi interview, Muthumuvhi fondly reflected on her upbringing in the Mokopane village in Limpopo, emphasising that her passion for farming is deeply rooted in her formative years.
“Looking back, I grew up in a village where farming was a part of my daily routine that instilled the passion in me,” she says.
Never backing down
As a commercialising farmer, one of the major challenges she faces is gaining market access during festive seasons. Preference is often given to commercial farmers, posing difficulties in managing their supply chain.
“The challenge we are facing is the supply of fertile eggs. It is hard. Especially during the peak of November/December because the suppliers prioritise commercial farmers over smallholders,” she says.
But this is a woman who does not back down. She knew that the industry would come with challenges. She remains focused on the main goal and does not let anything deter her from achieving it. “One thing I always remind myself of is that nobody told me that the road would be easy. I stand strong and I am persistent.”
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Life-changing programme
Receiving the great news of being part of the Corteva Agriscience Programme was a gift. It was exactly the opportunity she needed. The programme, fondly known as #SoilSistas, is presented in partnership with the GIBS Entrepreneurship Academy.
“When I received the email that I was one of the participants selected, it was a great opportunity which I accepted with grace,” she says.
One of the key opportunities in the programme is networking. Finding a group of women who relentlessly contribute to the country’s food security across various stages of the value chain is a truly inspiring experience for Muthumuvhi.
She advises women who are thinking about the programme to come in open-minded and ready to glow and grow. “Network with other women in the #SoilSita programme, don’t close yourself off. To grow and learn as women, we need to stand together for success,” she says.
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