By Lebogang Mashala
Duncan Serapelwane is a dedicated farmer who actively mentors fellow farmers, equipping them with vital knowledge and skills for agricultural success.
The first Moalosi Bonsmara Masterclass took place on 26 April 2025, at Duncan Serapelwane’s farm in Morokweng, just outside Vryburg, North West. The event was a tremendous success, attracting over 100 farmers across South Africa and Botswana.
Hosted by founder Duncan Moalosi Serapelwane, the masterclass aimed to give back to the community by empowering emerging farmers. The focus was on essential topics such as farm and herd management, genetic selection and improvement, financial management, and succession planning.
Since beginning his farming journey in 2003, Serapelwane has established himself as a prominent figure in the cattle industry as a Bonsmara stud breeder. He is a dedicated farmer who mentors fellow farmers, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the agricultural sector.
According to Serapelwane, farming is a slow but steady business. He emphasises that success in farming requires mental preparation and personal investment. He advised attendees to invest in themselves, seek knowledge, and carefully plan. “This isn’t a quick business, and you shouldn’t enter it with unrealistic expectations,” he says.
He stated that self-reliance is crucial for a successful farming business. “Avoid depending on the government or anyone else, for that matter. Many people believe the government will provide resources or financial assistance, but that’s not true. It’s up to you to invest in education and plan effectively,” he emphasised.
Regarding finances, Serapelwane highlighted that financial management is essential for success. He advised farmers to develop good financial habits from the very beginning. “One of my mentors taught me early on to keep every invoice. Those invoices reveal your spending patterns, which financial institutions look for if you ever seek funding,” he explained.
By tracking monthly expenses and maintaining clear financial records, farmers can position themselves as responsible borrowers, enhancing their chances of securing loans.
Serapelwane also encouraged farmers to involve their children early in the business to ensure smooth succession. “While involving your kids early in the business is important, you must never spoil them. Teach them that things do not come easily; they must work their way up in the business to earn their place,” he stressed.
Madoda Sambatha, the MEC for the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, praised Serapelwane for successfully hosting a master class event and for his ongoing contributions to the development of smallholder farmers. He emphasised the importance of making the superior genetics produced by Serapelwane accessible to more farmers in the North West, as this could greatly enhance livestock quality and improve profitability for farmers in the province. Sambatha also announced several initiatives his department will launch in the current financial year, including a genetic improvement program for commercial and communal land farmers. This program will involve sourcing superior genetics from stud breeders like Serapelwane.
Serapelwane used some of the bulls featured in his upcoming production sale to learn about bull selection. The Moalosi Bonsmara 3rd Production Sale is scheduled for 24 June 2025 at the Vryburg Showgrounds.
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