Grain SA is thrilled to announce the nominees for the prestigious Day of Celebration Farmer of the Year 2024 awards, which recognise the outstanding contributions and achievements of our dedicated agricultural community.
These exceptional individuals have demonstrated unparalleled commitment and resilience in their farming practices, setting new benchmarks in sustainable agriculture and rural development. Their stories of success highlight the important role of producers in ensuring food security and fostering economic growth.
The journeys of our Farmer of the Year nominees have been nothing short of remarkable. Their dedication to sustainability and excellence has set new standards in the industry. Their hard work and perseverance are a testament to the impact of the Phahama Grain Phakama Farmer Development Programme. Their stories celebrate growth, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in agriculture.
As we prepare to honour their incredible accomplishments, we look forward to showcasing their contributions and the profound difference they have made. The Day of Celebration on 18 September 2024 is a fitting tribute to their tireless efforts and the bright future of agriculture. These are the Farmer of the Year 2024 nominees:
Subsistence Farmer of the Year
Beauty Gumbi
Region: Paulpietersburg
Farm: Uphuzane farm
Regional development manager: Lanalie Swanepoel
Mhlangenqaba Mkizwana
Region: Maclear
Farm: Khohlopong
Regional development manager: Eric Wiggill
Mfaniseni Paulus Khumalo
Region: Nelspruit
Farm: Ngodini
Regional development manager: Smangaliso Zimbili
Smallholder Farmer of the Year
Mandla Nkosi
Region: Piet Retief
Farm: Nkululeko farm
Regional development manager: Lanalie Swanepoel
Jim Masemola
Region: Elias Motsoaledi
Farm: Holnek
Regional development manager: Jerry Mthombothi
Buyisiwe Dlamini
Region: Volksrust
Farm: Vuka community property
Regional development manager: Lanalie Swanepoel
Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year
Dieketseng Mahlelehlele
Region: Free State
Farm: Vrede
Regional development manager: Johan Kriel
Zoliwe Nombewu
Region: Eastern Cape
Farm: Gotyibeni
Regional development manager: Eric Wiggill
Alfred Gondo
Region: Nkangala
Farm: Koornfontein
Regional development manager: Jerry Mthombothi
New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year
Luvuyo Mbuto
Region: KwaZulu-Natal
Farm: Altona
Regional development manager: Luke Collier
Bheki Mabuza
Region: Amersfoort
Farm: Donderhoek
Regional development manager: Jerry Mthombothi
Petrus Tsotetsi
Region: Free State
Farm: Debult
Regional development manager: Jacques Roux
