By Maphuti Mongatane
South Africa celebrates Women’s Day on 9 August, but with International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025 now is an apt time to reflect on the progress and empowerment of women in agriculture. One initiative that stands out is the SoilSistas programme, launched by Corteva Agriscience in partnership with the Gordon Institute for Business Science’s Entrepreneurship Development Academy four years ago. This one-year developmental programme for high-potential women farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs has been quietly transforming South Africa’s agricultural landscape by empowering rural women to become economic leaders.
Corteva Agriscience recently announced the expansion of the programme, which will now support 60 rural women from Moletji, Limpopo – a region known for its diverse crops, including maize, citrus and vegetables.
The SoilSistas programme combines classroom-based learning with practical experience, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills essential for modern agriculture. Training covers a range of key areas, including modern farming techniques, financial literacy, leadership, marketing and sustainable agricultural practices.
“The SoilSistas Programme is a part of a larger global effort by Corteva Agriscience to support women in agriculture and help them become change agents within their communities,” says Betty Kiplagat, the head of Industry and Government Affairs at Corteva Agriscience Africa Middle East. “The expansion of the SoilSistas programme is a testament to our commitment to empowering women in agriculture.
Driving economic growth
“By providing these women with the necessary skills and resources, we are not only fostering sustainable farming practices but also driving economic growth and resilience within their communities,” Kiplagat says. “This initiative underscores the vital role women play in addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security.”
Over the past three years, the SoilSistas programme has empowered more than 120 women farmers across South Africa, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to enhance their agricultural practices and business strategies. The programme focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, including organic farming, water conservation, crop rotation and integrated pest management. These strategies enhance agricultural productivity while strengthening rural communities’ resilience to climate change.
Importantly, the programme also facilitates market access for rural women entrepreneurs through training in market research, branding, packaging and pricing strategies. This knowledge is vital for identifying market opportunities and establishing connections with buyers and distributors.
For the Gordon Institute for Business Science’s Entrepreneurship Development Academy (GIBS EDA), the partnership extends its leadership and entrepreneurial expertise to rural communities, helping women unlock their potential and build sustainable businesses. “At GIBS, we are committed to creating inclusive opportunities for growth and leadership,” says Lerato Mahlasela, managing executive of Corporate Education and the EDA at GIBS. “Through the SoilSistas Programme, we hope to inspire and equip rural women to thrive, not only as farmers but also as business leaders and change-makers in their communities.”
The programme has not only improved agricultural yields but has also enabled women to transition from subsistence farming to commercially viable ventures. This shift has significantly boosted household incomes, created local job opportunities, and contributed to broader economic development.
“In celebration of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of the women who have benefited from the SoilSistas programme and acknowledge the tremendous impact it has had on the agricultural sector,” Kiplagat says. “With our recent launch in Limpopo, we have the privilege of supporting 60 women farmers, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed. This initiative is a true reflection of our commitment to empowering women in agriculture and driving sustainable growth in the sector. We are excited to see the positive transformation in these communities and remain dedicated to supporting more women farmers across South Africa.”
The continued success of the SoilSistas programme reaffirms the importance of supporting women in agriculture, proving that when given the right opportunities, they can drive meaningful change and contribute to the growth and sustainability of the sector.
