Ever wondered how avocado farmer Emmanuel Maphorogo nailed redeveloping his top quality avocado farm for export market? Get the lowdown on his success and hang out with the nation’s finest at the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba from Thursday, 4 to Saturday, 6 April in Pretoria.
Maphorogo, a fourth-generation farmer from Limpopo, is one of the top speakers at this year’s indaba, hosted by Food For Mzansi. Despite his success, he believes in the constant pursuit of knowledge. That is why he views the three-day event as a chance to potentially transform the future of his farm near the Thathe Vondo Forest in Thohoyandou.
“Meeting government representatives, financial institutions, and agricultural organisations can open doors to funding opportunities, grants, and support programmes,” he says. “This is crucial for overcoming the financial hurdles faced by young farmers like me.”
CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR INDABA TICKET
Exploring new farming methods
Climate resilience is also a hot topic on the indaba agenda, and Maphorogo is especially eager to discover innovative farming methods and smarter approaches to tackle the challenges ahead.
He says, “With unpredictable weather patterns, I am keen to explore climate-smart agriculture practices and strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather.”
Organisers says there is a surge in demand for tickets to the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, anticipating over 1 300 attendees during the three-day event. Saturday is devoted to optional hands-on demonstrations and a masterclass on financial management for farmers. Additionally, exhibitions will be open to the public on that day.
Opportunity to learn, network and collaborate
Meanwhile, Keneilwe Raphesu, an award-winning farmer from Vereeniging, Gauteng, affirms her inclusion in the remarkable indaba speaker line-up. For her, it’s more than just a chance to share; it’s a valuable opportunity to both learn and network.
Raphesu describes it as a “must-attend event” and a chance to connect with peers from across South Africa. “You can [come and] build relationships, exchange ideas, and even come together to work collaboratively.”
Of course, the indaba is also a unique chance to connect with a diverse range of individuals – from researchers and suppliers to policymakers, eager to extend a hand and collaborate and mentor Mzansi’s vibrant young farmers and agripreneurs. “We need people to tell us successful stories, not only those without ups and downs,” she adds.
CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR INDABA TICKET
Embracing tech trends
In its third year running, the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba has solidified its status as the prime destination for the country’s leading agripreneurs aiming to forge connections and elevate their ventures.
Joining the line-up this year is Chantelle de Bruyn, a visionary Free State farmer and the founder of Buttercup House. She eagerly awaits what promises to be the experience of a lifetime. Having been an exhibitor last year, she has no doubts about the immense value offered.
De Bruyn says, “I am super excited to attend this year’s Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba, mainly because [it] provides access to cutting-edge technology. I am looking forward to [learn] how we can make use of AI-driven decision support systems as farmers,” she explains.
While she understands the pivotal role technology plays in modern farming, she knows that the indaba is about much more. “I’m also looking forward to exchanging knowledge and fostering new industry connections.”
CLICK HERE TO SECURE YOUR INDABA TICKET
How to get indaba tickets
This year, tickets to the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba can only be bought online at Quicket, or any Pick n Pay, PnP Clothing or PnP Liquor store. A two-day ticket costs just R500, with an additional R250 for those who want to attend the exclusive Saturday activities.
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