Subtrop and Nedbank drive transformation for Limpopo farmers

In the heart of Limpopo, a quiet agricultural revolution is unfolding. Stephen Mantsho, transformation manager at Subtrop, recently shared with Food For Mzansi the remarkable work the organisation is doing to empower local farmers, while highlighting the crucial role of Nedbank in supporting these initiatives.

“Transformation is central to what we do at Subtrop,” Mantsho explained. “Since 2018, we’ve been focused on enabling black growers in regions like Vhembe and Mopani to become commercially viable, opening doors not just to local markets, but also to export opportunities.”

Subtrop oversees three key associations: the Mango Growers Association, the Lychee Growers Association, and the South African Avocado Growers Association. Transformation is a primary objective for both the Mango and Avocado associations, and they allocate funding specifically to ensure meaningful change.

“Our approach is practical,” Mantsho says. “We focus on five key areas: enhancing technical knowledge on farms, increasing quality and quantity, opening sustainable markets, protecting existing establishments, and fostering collaboration through study groups.”

These monthly meet-ups allow growers to visit each other’s farms, critique practices, and collectively raise production standards.

Education, skills, and market access

Mantsho noted that technical knowledge is at the core of Subtrop’s transformation strategy. “We guide farmers on quality, quantity, and markets,” he says. “Once they understand these fundamentals, they can participate in local retail chains and, eventually, international markets.”

The introduction of Global GAP accreditation has been pivotal in this regard.

Mantsho explains, “Certification not only ensures that produce meets international standards, but also opens doors to markets that would otherwise be inaccessible. Retailers both locally and abroad now require this level of quality assurance, and it allows our farmers to compete globally.”

For example, during peak production weeks, avocado prices in South Africa often drop due to oversupply. With access to export markets, farmers can sell their produce at better prices in countries like China, India, Japan, and across the Middle East. This diversification protects both income and sustainability, enabling farmers to grow without fear of market saturation.

Subtrop’s strategy also includes long-term projects, such as establishing packhouses, drying facilities, and oil-processing plants. Many of these are now owned and operated by black entrepreneurs sourcing directly from Subtrop-supported farmers, further cementing the impact of the transformation initiatives.

Nedbank: A partner in growth

Central to the success of these initiatives has been the partnership with Nedbank. Mantsho recounts how the bank’s support has helped farmers turn small plots into thriving commercial operations. “When we approached Nedbank with these farmers’ stories, they didn’t hesitate. They recognised the potential, the commitment, and the opportunity for growth,” he says.

One standout story is that of Khathutshelo Matika, who started with just 100 avocado trees. With guidance from Subtrop and financial support facilitated by Nedbank, Matiga expanded his operation to 10 hectares.

Today, he is in discussions with commercial growers for partnerships that will allow further expansion, a testament to the power of mentorship and strategic investment.

Other farmers have seen similarly transformative growth. A lychee grower, previously struggling to produce market-ready fruit on a 98-hectare farm, now supplies top retail chains with high-quality produce.

Several farmers have increased their income from under R100 000 annually to more than a million Rand, a result of technical guidance, better market access, and financial backing from Nedbank.

Mantsho notes that the partnership goes beyond funding.

“Nedbank’s involvement has given farmers confidence. They know that when they invest effort, skills, and capital into improving their farms, there is institutional support backing them. That assurance changes the mindset from subsistence farming to a business-minded approach.”

The results are tangible. Between 2020 and 2023, many of these farmers have planted over 100 additional hectares, scaled their production, and gained recognition for quality and innovation. By combining practical skills, financial support, and market access, the Subtrop-Nedbank collaboration is creating a sustainable model that can be replicated across the country.

Practical advice for aspiring agripreneurs

For farmers aspiring to scale from small operations to commercial enterprises, Mantsho has clear advice: focus on quality, technical expertise, and business acumen.

“Consumers buy with their eyes first. Your produce needs to look appealing, and packaging matters. Beyond that, understand your finances, maintain records, and collaborate with other farmers to meet market demand,” he says.

Mantsho also stresses the importance of cooperation. “No single farmer can supply the entire nation or international markets alone. Big agricultural enterprises in South Africa succeed because they work together, fill containers, and ensure consistent supply. Smaller farmers must adopt the same mentality to scale successfully.”

Looking ahead, Mantsho is optimistic. “With Subtrop’s programs and Nedbank’s support, these farmers are on track to become self-sufficient, profitable, and competitive. What we’re doing today will impact generations to come. We’re not just transforming farms. We’re transforming lives and communities.”

Through strategic partnerships, technical mentorship, and a focus on sustainable market access, Subtrop and Nedbank are proving that meaningful transformation in agriculture is possible. For Limpopo’s farmers, the future is not just about survival. It’s about thriving in a competitive, global marketplace.