Imagine young farmers from all over South Africa, buzzing with excitement and packing their bags. Bus, taxi and flight tickets are being booked – everyone’s heading to the 2024 Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba in Pretoria North! It’s going to be epic.
Among the 1 300 people set to attend the Food For Mzansi event from Thursday, 4 to Saturday, 6 April are representatives from Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (Yard) – a national structure amplifying youth voices to advocate for rural development and agri-policies.
Dimpo Xaba, a well-known farmer, founder of Thusanang Bakone Group, and chairperson of Yard in Gauteng, said the anticipation is building up among their members for the upcoming indaba.
“Farmers face different struggles; it is important for young farmers to attend so that they can draw motivation from the country leaders in the agricultural sector. The latest innovation and opportunities in the sector would be something not to miss,” Xaba said.
Furthermore, he said regenerative agriculture, renewable energy for the agricultural sector, funding, and new agricultural markets are some of the key indaba programme elements he is anticipating.
“Innovation on the latest technology in the sector is also something I would like to explore insights on so that I can choose the best solutions for my operations at the farm. Lastly, the effects of climate change are paralysing the agricultural sector. I will be exploring ways to mitigate this effect through attending tailored masterclasses,” he said.
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Pulling up in numbers
Karabo Ciocha, a biotechnology graduate and deputy secretary of Yard in North West, said they will be pulling up in numbers and look forward to the life-changing networking opportunities that the indaba has to offer.
Reflecting on the previous year’s event, Ciocha described the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba as “fruitful” and “mentally engaging.”
“Last year’s event offered me an opportunity to acquire knowledge as well as broaden my understanding of the agricultural sector,” she said. “By attending this fun-filled learning event, one exposes themselves to an inspirational portal of knowledge, which has great potential in propelling one forward, regardless of where they are in their farming career.”
Ciocha also highlighted the inclusive nature of the indaba. According to her, what sets the highly anticipated event by Food For Mzansi apart from others is its curated approach.
“It is inclusive. The information shared is not discriminatory of where you are in your farming journey; there’s always something to learn from and relate to,” she explained.
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Boost in technical skills
Kgomotso Ranchu, managing director of Riemland Eiers and Free State Yard treasurer, echoed Ciocha’s sentiments, emphasising the significance of the Mzansi Young Farmers Indaba for young farmers.
“It provides a wealth of information for farmers in particular and the public in general. This is a must-attend gathering for young farmers as it provides a chance to promote yourself and your business face-to-face with potential customers and clients,” he said.
Ranchu also highlighted the indaba’s role in providing a platform for farmers to engage with experts. “Masterclasses play a major role in engaging with experts in some of the key research areas, which can boost some of your technical skills in the field.”
What he is looking forward to most is discussions on conservation agriculture, agro-processing, food technology, citrus production, and diversification.
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Science meets technology
Meanwhile, as a biotechnology graduate, Ciocha expressed excitement about the integration of modern science into agriculture and its potential to transform the sector, particularly within the African continent.
“The successful shaping of the biotechnology market through agriculture by countries such as China, the USA, and the United Kingdom continues to be remarkable,” Ciocha said.
Additionally, she emphasised the yet-to-be-realised possibilities of biotechnology in promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Africa. Ciocha expressed anticipation for gaining insights into the interplay of science, technology, and traditional agricultural methods within the African context.
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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.
Those attending the indaba on Saturday are set to gain valuable insights, including a masterclass dedicated to the essential principles of business management within the agricultural sector.
This session promises to delve deep into the intricacies of effectively managing and steering agricultural enterprises, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of the strategic aspects involved in the business side of farming. Covering topics such as financial planning, resource allocation, and sustainable business practices, this masterclass aims to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills that can contribute to the success and resilience of agricultural ventures.
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