Martin Botha finds great joy in training developing farmers and watching their progress – especially when they achieve good results. One such farmer, who has been particularly exciting to mentor, is Alfred Gondo, who was announced as the Grain SA Potential New Era Farmer of the Year for 2024.
Although Martin was never a crop farmer, he gained valuable knowledge about what is necessary for successful crop farming through his positions at various seed and agricultural chemical companies. After retiring twelve years ago, Martin became one of the mentors of the Farmer Development Programme (FDP) of Phahama Grain Phakama (PGP). The knowledge he gained in his career proved to be just what was needed for this new chapter in his life.
Martin met Alfred six years ago. At this stage the young farmer had limited knowledge about good agricultural practices. Through dedication and hard work – and listening to his mentor’s advice – the mentee has grown his farming operation. He initially planted 20 ha and expanded to 100 ha last season. Even though the climatic conditions were problematic, Alfred still managed to realise a yield of 7,7 t/ha on the 42 ha of maize he planted and 1,1 t/ha on the 62 ha of soybeans he planted.
As his mentor, Martin decided to nominate Alfred for the Farmer of the Year competition as he saw that this passionate and dedicated young man has the potential to develop into a successful producer. ‘He has a hunger to improve as a farmer and gain more knowledge about agricultural practices. He is also a conscientious, hard-working young man.’
It was only when he looked at the ‘video evidence’ of Alfred’s farming operation that Martin realised that his mentee stood a good chance to be chosen as the winner.
Martin did not attend the Day of Celebration where Alfred was announced as the winning farmer. However, as soon as Alfred had the opportunity, he phoned his mentor to share the good news. Alfred is full of praise for his mentor and says that Martin has a wealth of knowledge – and not just about crop production. Because he is a chemical specialist he can give advice about that aspect as well. ‘He is always ready to give guidance when I need it, and he has taught me a lot.’
On the flip side, being a mentor has helped Martin to develop patience. He has also learnt how important it is to respect people, even if their opinions, mindset, and culture are different to his.
THE MENTOR AND MENTEE
What has impressed you most about your winning farmer?
Alfred is a hard worker who gets up early in the mornings to make sure everything gets done. He is an enthusiastic and passionate farmer who listens to advice. He is also keen to learn. If I spot something that needs attention during a farm visit, he will react immediately and get the job done.
What have you learned from Alfred?
To listen carefully, think about what is being said, and not to react to what I think I heard – basically to remain calm, no matter what happens.
What is your dream for this winner?
That he will achieve his dream of getting more land so that he can plant 500 ha – and that he will remain a passionate farmer.
FACTS ABOUT THE MENTOR
Name: Martin Botha
Region: Mpumalanga
Position: Joined Grain SA as mentor in 2012
Mentors: His father, Hertzog Botha
THREE CHARACTERISTICS A MENTOR NEEDS
- Patience
- Wide general knowledge about all aspects of farming
- Good communication skills
