Nkosana Mtimkulu (41), a finalist in the 2025 Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year category, was not born into farming, but ‘built’ his way into it. Growing up, he was inspired by his parents’ resilience, which shaped his journey as a first-generation farmer determined to create something from the ground up. ‘Being the only son with three sisters who have all immigrated overseas, my heart has always been grounded in South Africa. I am the “city boy” that left the bright city lights to farm in the rural countryside of Groot Marico in North West.’
The farm Amantle was the vision and brainchild of his father, Stephen, to build a lasting legacy for the Mtimkulu family. Nkosana was inspired by his father’s vision and ran with it, developing the dream into a reality. They ventured into dairy farming and milk processing in 2010 and learned firsthand how demanding and unpredictable the industry can be.
After some time, Nkosana made the decision to transition to crop farming and soon realised that grain farming required a long-term strategy – from understanding soil health to choosing the right market. Today he is fully invested in grain production. However, agriculture is more than just business to him – it’s a way to transform communities. ‘I believe that agriculture has the potential to heal, empower, and unify South Africa.’
He sees his farming operation as a stepping stone to something even bigger – a chance to build a commercial enterprise while paving the way for other developing farmers. He is passionate about rural community development and hosts free farmers’ days in his personal capacity to bring information to developing farmers and those interested in farming.
Being elected as a finalist has been humbling and heart-warming. ‘It is validating to be recognised by your peers for the work you are doing.’ He hopes that his story will inspire others – especially young, black, first-generation farmers – to see that success in agriculture is possible.
NKOSANA’S STORY
What has contributed to your success?
To me information is key, and PGP has played a big role in my growth. Through the development programmes and leadership initiatives, I have gained skills, networks, and opportunities to grow as a farmer. The study group sessions are a major contributor to my growth as I’m always keen to apply what I learn. Other factors are the relationships I have created with neighbouring and other commercial farmers, faith in what I am doing, and my attitude.
What is your dream for the future?
I aim to scale my farm into a fully integrated commercial enterprise, incorporating agri processing. As technology is at the forefront of my farming operation, I want to develop this farm into a flagship technology farm in North West – a ‘go to point’ for agricultural students; a farm where researchers and students can come to do research and get first-hand training about agricultural technology.
FARM FACTS
Name: Amantle farm
Nearest town: Zeerust
Region: North West
Size: 533 ha – plants 250 ha
Type of farming operation: Mixed – crops (maize, sorghum, soybeans, wheat, and small white beans planted in crop rotation cycle) and livestock (mixed cattle)
PGP’S CONTRIBUTION
- Joined Grain SA in 2018
- Lichtenburg study group
A MENTOR’S VIEW
Du Toit van der Westhuizen, regional development manager in North West, says Nkosana is a dedicated farmer and keen to improve. He attends study group meetings, regional meetings, and the activities that PGP is offering. ‘He is always willing to listen to advice and grab any opportunity where he can learn and grow. Since joining the Farmer Development Programme the agricultural and management practices on the farm have reached a higher level.’
