Women in agriculture are transforming the sector with their passion and resilience. They turn obstacles into opportunities, advance farming practices, and empower communities. This is how AGDA CEO Leona Archary described their impact in her address at the Soul To Soil Women’s Day brunch earlier this week.
Today’s theme of “Soul to Soil” resonates deeply with me. I believe it speaks to the connection between our passions, our dreams, and the earth that sustains us all. As women in agriculture, we are the living embodiment of this connection.
Thinking about the journey of a seed, it starts as a tiny package of potential. But when planted in fertile soil and nurtured with care, it transforms into a thriving plant that can feed families, sustain communities, and change landscapes. Our journeys as women in agriculture mirror this process.
Our souls are like those seeds – filled with dreams, ideas, and the potential for growth. The soil represents the agricultural sector, with all its challenges and opportunities. When we plant our souls in this soil, magical things happen.
- Our determination becomes the water that softens the hard shell of tradition and bias.
- Our resilience is the root system that anchors us firmly, even in the face of adversity.
- Our innovation is the shoot that pushes through obstacles, always reaching for the light.
- Our compassion is the leaves that provide sustenance not just for ourselves but for our entire communities.
But this is not a one-way process. Just as we pour our souls into the soil, that soil – rich with potential – feeds our souls in return.
Every challenge we overcome enriches us. Every crop we nurture nourishes our spirit. Every life we touch through our work adds depth to our purpose.
The soil teaches us patience and that change doesn’t happen overnight but with consistency, amazing things occur. It teaches us adaptability as each season brings new challenges, requiring us to evolve and innovate.
It teaches us interconnectedness because in the soil, as in life, everything is linked in a delicate balance. And perhaps most importantly, it teaches us hope – for in every seed we plant, we express our belief in a better future.
This relationship between soul and soil is at the heart of our agricultural journey. It’s about giving and receiving, and it’s also about nurturing and being nurtured. It is a reminder that as we work to transform agriculture, agriculture is also transforming us.
My personal journey
My own journey from soul to soil… My path to becoming the CEO of AGDA was not straightforward. Unusually, I began my career in commerce, but even then, the seeds of my future in agriculture were being planted.
As I continued my professional journey, I found myself drawn to the challenges of rural development and land reform. This work exposed me to the agricultural landscape – its challenges, its potential, and most importantly, its people. It was here that my passion for agriculture began to emerge, and I wanted to effect real change in the agricultural sector.
As I transitioned through various roles in government, I saw first-hand the power of agriculture. I witnessed how it could change lives, empower communities, and drive economic growth. Each of my roles during my career was like adding a new layer of rich soil to my experience, enhancing my understanding, and fuelling my determination to make a difference.
Today, in my current role as CEO of AGDA, I’ve learned to appreciate the unique perspective that women bring to leadership in agriculture. This sector, by its very nature, demands a leadership style that is resilient and nurturing.
It requires people who understand the complex nature of agriculture, have a long-term vision, and can adapt to changes and challenges. These qualities align closely with the experiences many women share as wife, mother, daughter, sister, community member, and caregivers.
I have found that as women, we can manage diverse responsibilities – strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to nurture potential. These translate powerfully into effective leadership in agriculture.
This is not about juggling roles but about synthesising experiences to create a more comprehensive, empathetic approach to leadership. This perspective has been crucial in shaping my approach at AGDA.
My guiding principle has always been “Lift as you rise.” True success in agriculture, as in life, is not measured solely by personal achievements, but by our ability to empower and elevate those around us.
It’s about creating an environment where everyone – our team members, the farmers we support, and the communities we serve – can flourish.
There’s a beautiful synergy in caring for the soil of our agricultural lands and nurturing those around us – be they our children, our staff, or the farmers we support. Both require us to be patient, to have faith in the process of growth, and to understand that our care and attention today will bear fruit in the future.
As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded of a quote by Nelson Mandela: “There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
So, I say this to you: Your journey, like mine, may not be a straight path. But every experience, every challenge, every triumph is enriching your soil. Trust in your passion, nurture your dreams, and don’t be afraid to put down roots in new territory. For it is in the diversity of our experiences that we find the strength to grow and the wisdom to lead.
Women as agricultural trailblazers
My journey is just one among many stories of women in agriculture. Across our country, women are breaking barriers, driving innovation, and reshaping the agricultural landscape. These women embody “Soul to Soil,” pouring their passion and determination into agriculture in our country, and their stories are an inspiration to us all.
The remarkable women on our panel today, each of whom has made significant contributions to our agricultural sector:
Ntuthu Mbiko champions active participation and sustainable programmes for women in agribusiness and the biodiversity economy. Her roles in various industry structures demonstrate her commitment to enhancing women’s participation in agribusiness and transforming the sector.
Dr Mankodi Moitse, CEO of Kagiso Trust, has dedicated her career to rural development and education. With over 20 years of experience in both listed and private companies, she brings a wealth of financial and strategic expertise to the agricultural sector.
Her work demonstrates the crucial link between education, sound financial management, and agricultural progress. Her leadership at Kagiso Trust is helping to shape the future of rural development and education in South Africa.
Mientjie Mouton, founder of Carmién Tea, is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance in agriculture. In 1998, Mientjie saw great potential in rooibos and founded Carmién Tea.
Today, her company is an established exporter of quality rooibos to international markets and an innovative brand of tea blends. Her journey from growing up on a rooibos-producing farm to leading a successful international tea company embodies the “Soul to Soil” ethos.
Her work has not only created a thriving business but has also had a significant impact on the Citrusdal farming community through the Mouton Foundation.
Logamal Ramiah is the CEO of Masimong Group Holdings and brings a wealth of experience in finance and strategy to the agricultural sector. As a chartered accountant, Logamal has gained both local and international experience in various executive roles.
Her passion for empowerment and upliftment has led to her being named SAICA Top 35 Under 35 and CEO Global Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government. In her role as CEO of Masimong Group, Logamal is helping to shape the future of many crucial sectors in South Africa.
Barbara Muzata is a seasoned storyteller and integrated communications and branding strategist with diverse industry experience. Her expertise in launching, building, and positioning brands across Africa and the Middle East brings a unique perspective to the agricultural sector.
Her experience across various industries, including agriculture, allows her to bring innovative approaches to communicating the stories of women in agriculture and promoting the sector’s growth.
These women are contributing to and transforming agriculture in South Africa.
From revolutionising traditional practices to bringing corporate expertise to our sector, from building international brands to empowering local communities, they exemplify the “Soul to Soil” connection.
There are also many other women across our country transforming agriculture through their innovative approaches and unwavering dedication:
- Innovators in urban and small-scale farming such as Kgomotso Malebana, the only strawberry farmer in Soweto, and Andile Matukane, who runs a hydroponic farm on a Tshwane rooftop, are proving that agriculture has no boundaries. They’re bringing fresh produce and economic opportunities to urban areas.
- Champions of sustainable and organic practices such as Gugulethu Mahlangu, an aquaponic horticulturist, and Nomonde Ncongwane, an organic livestock farmer, are at the forefront of sustainable agriculture. They’re not just growing food; they’re nurturing ecosystems for the future.
- Pioneers in specialised and niche markets such as Ingrid de Waal, the Western Cape’s only female lavender farmer, and Megan Angus, leading Wagyu beef producer, are carving out successful niches. They show how passion and expertise can turn unique agricultural ideas into thriving businesses.
- Resilient commercial farmers such as Selina Hlabedi, the “Queen of Bonsmara,” who rebuilt her cattle farm after devastating losses, and Siphesihle Kwetana, who built a successful farm in just five years, demonstrate remarkable resilience in commercial farming.
- Youth leading agricultural innovation like Sinethemba Masinga, who at 15 became director of her family’s farm, and Thato Moagi, a 27-year-old award-winning farmer, represent the future of agriculture. They blend traditional knowledge with modern innovations.
- Community empowerment through agriculture exemplified by Nonhlanhla Joye, whose plastic bag farming system has empowered thousands, and Mmabatho Morudi, who offers free bee pollination services, understand that true success in agriculture extends beyond the farm gates.
- Agripreneurs like Ncumisa Mkabile, who turned adversity into opportunity when the pandemic closed her catering business, show how adversity can spark agricultural innovation and resilience.
- Trailblazers in agricultural education and research like Thato Moagi, the first South African recipient of the Nuffield Agricultural Scholarship, who are advancing agricultural knowledge and paving the way for evidence-based, sustainable farming practices.
These women, and countless others across our country, are not just working in agriculture; they are transforming it. They are breaking new ground, both literally and figuratively, from urban rooftops to large farms, from beehives to high-tech greenhouses. Yet they all share a common thread – a deep, soulful connection to the soil they nurture.
These stories inspire us to dig deeper, reach further, and nurture the seeds of change in our own spheres. In doing so, we ensure that South African agriculture continues to be enriched by the passionate souls of women leaders for generations to come.
Challenges and opportunities
As we celebrate the achievements of women in agriculture, we must also acknowledge the significant challenges that many still face. The path from soul to soil is not always smooth, and many women encounter obstacles that can make their journey more difficult.
However, I firmly believe that within these challenges lie opportunities for growth, innovation, and transformative change.
- Limited access to land: Land ownership is a significant barrier to women’s full participation and success in agriculture.
- Inadequate financial support: Women often face greater difficulties in accessing credit, loans, and other financial services necessary for agricultural investment and growth.
- Gender biases: Traditional views about women’s roles, coupled with systemic discrimination, can limit women’s participation in decision-making processes, access to training, and recognition of their contributions to agriculture.
- Limited access to technology and innovation: Women farmers often have less access to new agricultural technologies, mechanisation, and innovative farming techniques, which can limit their productivity and competitiveness.
- Balancing multiple roles: Many women farmers must balance their agricultural work with domestic responsibilities and childcare, which can limit their ability to fully engage in farming activities or pursue agricultural education and training.
At AGDA, we see these challenges as calls to action. We are committed to supporting women in seizing the opportunities that arise from these challenges. Through our various initiatives, we aim to:
- Support programmes to increase women’s access to land and resources: We’re exploring innovative models of land use and access that can benefit women farmers and young people.
- Provide targeted financial support and training: We’re partnering with financial entities to create loan products tailored to their needs. Our training programmes cover not just agricultural techniques but also business management and digital skills.
- Foster mentorship and networking opportunities: We’re establishing mentorship programmes that pair experienced farmers with newcomers to the field. Our networking events and online platforms create spaces to share knowledge, resources, and support.
- Promote women’s leadership in agricultural policy-making: We’re actively working to increase women’s representation in agricultural policy conversations. We want to provide leadership training and create opportunities for women farmers to engage with policymakers and share their perspectives.
- Drive innovation in agricultural technology: We’re also creating programmes to ensure that women farmers have equal access to new agricultural innovations.
- Support work-life balance: We’re advocating for policies that recognise the multiple roles women play and developing programmes that provide childcare support and flexible training options for women farmers.
By addressing these challenges, we’re not just removing barriers – we’re creating new pathways for women to thrive in agriculture. We’re turning the soil of challenge into fertile ground for opportunity.
Remember, the challenges we face are not insurmountable but rather stepping stones to a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable agricultural sector. As women in agriculture, we have the power to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth, both for ourselves and for our communities.
Call to action
So, my fellow women in agriculture, I call upon you today to:
- Embrace your role as changemakers. Your soul, your passion, your innovation – these are the seeds of transformation.
- Nurture the soil of opportunity. Seek out and create chances for growth, for yourself and for others.
- Cultivate networks of support. Just as plants thrive in diverse ecosystems, so do we thrive when we support and uplift each other.
- Be bold in your aspirations. Dream big, for yourselves and for our sector. The future of agriculture is ours to shape.
- Remember the soul-soil connection. Your passion and the earth’s potential are intertwined. Nurture both, and watch the magic unfold.
As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us embrace the connection between our souls and the soil we nurture. This connection goes beyond the physical; it’s spiritual and emotional, defining our essence as women in agriculture.
As we move forward, let’s heed the words of Wangari Maathai, the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize: “It’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference. My little thing is planting trees.”
In our case, our “little thing” might be planting crops, mentoring a fellow farmer, or advocating for policy change. Whatever it is, let’s do it with all our heart and soul.
Together, we’re authoring a new chapter in agriculture – one of empowerment, innovation, and sustainable growth, where women’s voices resonate across fields and boardrooms alike.
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