By Marieke Snyman

South African agriculture is at a crucial crossroads where transformation and inclusivity are not just desirable but necessary for the sector’s long-term sustainability. At a panel discussion during the African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2025, moderated by Peter Mashala, editor of African Farming, leading industry experts shared insights into how strategic partnerships are shaping the future of agriculture in the country. The discussion highlighted key initiatives, challenges and opportunities that drive transformation and economic inclusion in the sector.

The power of collaboration in agriculture

Lennox Plaatjies, from Partners in Agri Land Solutions (PALS), emphasised that partnerships between commercial farmers and emerging black farmers are essential for transformation. “We must move beyond rhetoric and implement actionable strategies that integrate smallholder farmers into mainstream agriculture,” Plaatjies stated.

He highlighted PALS’ successful collaboration models that have fostered sustainable agricultural enterprises and strengthened rural economies.

Plaatjies further explained that the PALS initiative is built on the principles of trust, mentorship and shared economic benefits. “When commercial farmers partner with new entrants, they not only provide technical skills but also create avenues for access to markets, infrastructure and financing. Transformation should not be seen as a threat but rather as an opportunity to create a more resilient agricultural sector,” he said.

Similarly, Dewald Olivier, CEO of Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), stressed the need for strategic alliances between government, private stakeholders and farmers. “The red meat industry must focus on practical solutions that empower small-scale farmers with the necessary resources, training and market access,” he said.

Olivier pointed out that financial support, mentorship and technological advancements play a critical role in levelling the playing field for previously disadvantaged farmers.

Olivier also touched on the importance of sustainability in the red meat industry. “Transformation must go hand in hand with ensuring that farming remains profitable and environmentally sustainable. Livestock farmers, particularly emerging ones, need guidance on best practices to increase productivity while maintaining ecological balance.”

The role of policy and research

Dr Lerato Matsaunyane from the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) added that research and innovation are key to sustainable agricultural development. “We need to bridge the gap between research institutions and farmers on the ground. Our research should be accessible and tailored to the practical needs of emerging farmers,” she said.

Dr Matsaunyane emphasised that knowledge-sharing platforms and partnerships between research bodies and agribusinesses can significantly enhance agricultural productivity and resilience. “There’s incredible potential in precision agriculture and climate-smart techniques that can help mitigate the impact of climate change on farming. We need to ensure that smallholder farmers have access to this knowledge and the resources to implement it.”

Private sector’s contribution to transformation

Diale Tilo, representing PepsiCo’s Kgodiso Development Fund, spoke about how private sector investment can drive inclusiveness in agriculture. “As a multinational company, we recognise our responsibility in ensuring that transformation is not just a compliance exercise but a meaningful initiative that uplifts communities,” Tilo remarked.

He discussed how the Kgodiso Development Fund is investing in small-scale farmers, providing them with market opportunities and agronomic support.

Tilo noted that large food corporations have a significant role to play in creating inclusive supply chains. “We are working towards ensuring that a greater proportion of our raw materials are sourced from emerging farmers. This not only helps with transformation but also strengthens local economies and job creation,” he added.

Similarly, Peter Setou from the Vumelana Advisory Fund emphasised the role of public-private partnerships in land reform projects. “We need sustainable models that benefit all stakeholders involved in land reform. Our approach ensures that land redistribution leads to productive agricultural enterprises rather than underutilised land,” Setou explained.

He advocated for structured agreements between commercial and emerging farmers to facilitate skills transfer and market access. “Many land reform projects fail because there is no long-term strategy for commercialisation. Partnerships between established farmers and beneficiaries of land reform programmes are crucial in ensuring that transferred land remains productive,” he said.

The importance of financial support and training

Praveen Dwarika, managing director of AFGRI, highlighted that financial support and training are crucial components of agricultural transformation. “Access to finance remains one of the biggest barriers for new entrants in agriculture. We need innovative funding models that cater to the specific needs of emerging farmers,” he stated.

Dwarika also stressed the importance of capacity building. “Finance alone is not enough; mentorship and business training are equally important to ensure long-term success.”

He mentioned that AFGRI has been involved in several programmes that provide financial assistance along with tailored mentorship initiatives. “If we want to see transformation succeed, we must ensure that farmers have both the capital and the knowledge to manage their farms as sustainable businesses.”

He also pointed out the role of cooperatives in supporting emerging farmers. “By forming cooperatives, smallholder farmers can pool resources, reduce costs and gain stronger bargaining power in the market,” Dwarika explained. “It’s through collective effort that we can create a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector.”

A collective effort for a sustainable future

The panel discussion made it clear that achieving inclusive growth in South African agriculture requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. Strategic partnerships between government, private sector players, research institutions and farming communities are essential to overcoming the barriers to transformation.

By fostering cooperation, implementing supportive policies and investing in skills development, the agricultural sector can unlock new opportunities for emerging farmers while ensuring food security and economic stability for the country.

As Mashala concluded, “The future of South African agriculture lies in our ability to work together, share knowledge and build an industry that is both inclusive and globally competitive.”

The insights shared during this discussion emphasise the importance of viewing transformation as a shared responsibility. When key players across the agricultural value chain commit to meaningful collaboration, South Africa’s farming sector can move towards a more equitable, prosperous and sustainable future.

More Imbizo news:

• Strengthening Africa’s food security – ‘We have to start now!’

• Agricultural Outlook: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

• Working with nature rather than against it – regenerative farming for a sustainable future

• From soil to success: How a macadamia farmer secured financial backing

• Bridging the gap between tradition and progress in farming

• AFGRI: A trusted partner in the African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo

• ‘Land reform cannot work unless we empower people to farm successfully’ – Nick Serfontein

• ‘Meaningful transformation in agriculture is impossible without strong partnerships’

• Harnessing technology for smarter farming

• Genetics and breeding technologies in livestock farming

• Strategic partnerships driving transformation and inclusive growth