‘It is with joy and pride that we celebrate the innovation and dedication of grain producers in South Africa at the 25th Grain Producer of the Year function. The nominees in each category have pushed boundaries and adopted best practices which allowed them to excel in their field. This evening belongs to them and they are the reason we are here tonight.’
With these words, Richard Krige, vice chairperson of Grain SA, set the tone for the 2024 Grain SA gala awards, held at the Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg on Friday 1 November. The event was a magnificent celebration, honouring grain producers who contribute to the continued growth of grain production in South Africa.
Krige thanked Syngenta for sponsoring the evening and believing in the award. ‘This award is not only about the yields achieved but also about the collective impact of successful farming on our communities. It highlights the power of unity, innovation, and perseverance.’
What is the Grain Producer of the Year award?
Grain SA’s annual Grain Producer of the Year award is one of South Africa’s most prestigious agricultural recognitions. Established by Grain SA and sponsored by Syngenta, the award aims to honour outstanding producers who demonstrate innovative farming practices, contribute significantly to the agricultural sector as well as their communities, and maintain high standards of sustainability and productivity.
More than just a symbol of recognition, this award serves as a beacon of excellence for grain producers, highlighting the importance of innovation, sustainability, and resilience in farming practices. In a country where food security is extremely important, this award not only elevates exceptional producers but also highlights the future of agriculture in South Africa.
Candidates are assessed on several criteria, including advancements in agricultural technology, financial management, and commitment to environmental stewardship and community development. The selection process involves a rigorous evaluation by a panel of experts who visit the farms to gain insights into the candidates’ farming operations, management practices, and impact on the local economy. This year the judges were Deon Berg, Wessel Hattingh, Kobus van Zyl, Gerrie Ludick and Johan de Lange.
Dr Tobias Doyer, CEO of Grain SA, reminded guests that winning the Grain Producer of the Year award is not only a mark of distinction but also serves as an inspiration for other producers. ‘Recipients often become role models within the agricultural community, encouraging others to adopt modern, sustainable practices and contributing to the overall development of South Africa’s grain industry.’ He added that the award underscores the vital role that grain producers play in securing South Africa’s food supply and their contribution to the country’s economy, highlighting the resilience and innovation within the agricultural sector.
Luc Henry, the newly appointed managing director of Syngenta, who is the main sponsor of the award, said in his keynote address that South African producers are pioneers of agriculture who set a high standard of excellence. ‘It is at events like these where the phrase “farming family” is often highlighted and becomes tangible, something this sector can be very proud of. Having been part of the Syngenta family since 2003, I can attest to the fact that the South African grain industry is committed to providing digital tools that allow producers to make data-driven decisions and to up their game when it comes to market competitiveness. We celebrate South Africa’s leading growers tonight for the way in which they adopt innovation and strive towards growth, inclusion, and engagement,’ he added.
After much anticipation, Derek Mathews, chairperson of Grain SA, was given the task of announcing the winner in the category Grain SA/Syngenta Grain Producer of the Year. He congratulated the finalists and reminded the audience that it is the resilience of South African producers that sets them apart. ‘We are extremely proud of our grain producers and their achievements within this vibrant sector,’ he added before announcing father and son duo Michael and Gareth Allen as 2024’s Grain Producers of the Year.
In accepting, Michael thanked Grain SA and Syngenta for sponsoring the award. ‘We cannot do without the valuable partnerships with key role players in the grain value chain. I am a great supporter of organised agriculture which I believe requires engagement which starts in your own office, moves to your neighbour, then your farmers’ union and finally organisations like Grain SA. We cannot farm without organised agriculture and being part of it is a great honour.’
He thanked his wife, Carol, who he says is his greatest supporter. He also acknowledged the work force in their business, some of whom have been part of the enterprise for more than 20 years. ‘After 43 years of farming, including the past 15 years with my son, Gareth, I can truly say: “What a wonderful life to be a farmer in South Africa.”’
Farmer Development Programme
Another highlight of the Grain SA gala awards is the announcement of the winners in Grain SA’s Phahama Grain Phakama (PGP) farmer development programme competition. With the aim of working towards a united and prosperous agricultural sector, this programme assists emerging producers, helping them transition into successful commercial agriculture.
Grain SA’s farmer development programme, through PGP, focuses on providing training, mentorship, and resources to emerging producers across South Africa. The programme aims to bridge the gap between subsistence farming and commercial farming, addressing both technical and business challenges that new producers face. Through workshops, field days, and practical training sessions, producers learn essential skills in crop production, financial management, sustainable farming techniques, and the use of modern agricultural technology.
The initiative includes an annual Farmer of the Year competition where winners in the different categories are announced. The following winners were also celebrated at the Grain SA gala awards:
- Petrus Tsotetsi: Grain SA/Absa/John Deere Financial New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year (250+ tons)
- Alfred Gondo: Grain SA Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year (100 ha, but producing less than 250 tons)
- Jim Besabakhe Masemola: Grain SA/Land Bank Smallholder Farmer of the Year (10 ha, but producing less than 250 tons)
- Mhlangenqaba Mkizwana: Grain SA/Absa/John Deere Financial Subsistence Farmer of the Year (0 to 10 ha)
In announcing the winners, Jeremia Mathebula, chairperson of PGP and vice chairperson of Grain SA, said that the recipients of these awards are beacons of hope and inspiration to the communities they farm in. ‘Achieving great yields takes passion, faith, and hard work. It is these values that allow producers to grow from obtaining 2 t/ha to becoming 8 t/ha growers,’ he added.
Sponsor representatives, Dr Langelihle Simela (business development manager: Absa Agri Business), Antois van der Westhuizen (managing director: John Deere Financial Africa and Middle East) and Sakhumzi May (chief agricultural economist at Land Bank) congratulated the winners and thanked Grain SA/PGP for driving the programme with continued success. ‘Your hard work, resilience, and vision as grain producers inspire us and fuel our commitment towards your growth,’ said May. Dr Simela thanked all who contributed to the nominees’ success stories. ‘This sector keeps on growing despite South Africa being a rain-scarce country. Through collaboration and partnerships, we are able to foster inclusive growth as each role player brings a piece of the puzzle to the table,’ she added. Van der Westhuizen thanked the nominees and grain producers who attended the evening for their contribution to keeping South Africa food secure. He also thanked Grain SA for hosting such an important event.
