Although he didn’t begin his agricultural journey after completing his school career, the 2025 Potential New Era Farmer of the Year, Madinda Jabulani Matshinini (33), knew he would one day return to Naudéskop near Bethlehem in the Free State. His father, Fanie, bought the farm in 1998 when he retired from the Department of Public Works. This ignited Jabu’s interest in cattle but also cultivated an interest in crop production.
Jabu initially pursued studies in draughtsmanship driven by his interest in engineering, but his passion for the farming lifestyle led him back to his roots. He began working alongside his father, knowing that one day he would have to take over the farming duties when his dad retired. However, Fanie passed away in 2022 and Jabu had to rise to the occasion.
For Jabu being a farmer is his dream job, because farming comes naturally and he loves what he does. Whether it is getting up at the crack of dawn, or working way past bedtime, his enthusiasm does not wane. ‘I really enjoy farming so much – it is almost like a hobby, and not a job!’ Because of this enthusiasm, his son Lwandile is also developing a passion for agriculture and is by his father’s side as much as possible.
Jabu is an active member of the Kaallaagte farming association and attends the Phahama Grain Phakama Kaallaagte study group. Although the father/son duo focused on livestock, he made the decision to diversify into crop production not only to help his cash flow, but also to contribute to the country’s food security.
He planted his first crops on the 435-ha farm in 2023. Under the guidance of his mentor, Jacques Roux, PGP regional development manager in the Free State, Jabu produces maize, sunflower, and soybeans. Through a loan from SACTA and support from the PGP team, Jabu planted a total of 120 ha – 40 ha maize, 40 ha sunflower, and 40 ha soybeans. With his strong will to succeed, this keen livestock farmer showed what can be achieved if you are truly committed to making your dream come true. During a relatively dry season, his maize realised 5,6 t/ha, his sunflower 1,4 t/ha and his soybeans 1,8 t/ha.
This season he will attempt his third solo flight as a crop farmer, planting maize and soybeans on the 120 ha of arable land available – and after having experienced the impact of both too little and too much in his first two years, Jabu is hoping for a perfect season.
Apart from his Bonsmara cattle, there is also a healthy vegetable garden which his mom tends to. The vegetables are sold to the community.
JABU’S STORY
WHO HAS CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR SUCCESS?
Apart from my father, my mentor Jacques has played a huge role in my road to success. The training I received from the Sernick Group also helped to develop me as a livestock farmer. The support of my mom and four sisters definitely makes me want to farm even bigger and better.
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM FOR THE FUTURE?
I want to increase my skills and increase production which means I need better mechanisation and more land. I am now also registered with Bonsmara SA and hope to grow my herd with their help.
FARM FACTS
Farm: Naudéskop
Nearest town: Bethlehem
Region: Eastern Free State
Size: 435 ha – planted 120 ha, remainder used for grazing
Type of farming operation: Mixed – crops (maize, sunflower, and soybeans) and livestock (Bonsmara herd)
PGP’S CONTRIBUTION
- Joined Grain SA in 2023
- Kaallaagte study group
Training courses completed:
- Calibration of planters and sprayers
