By Maile Matsimela
In the region of Ga-Sekhukhune in Limpopo, nestled along the banks of the massive Lepelle River, lies a modest yet impactful farming operation that exemplifies the critical role village farming plays in South Africa’s food security and rural development. Morris Motlokwe Sefoka, a dedicated farmer from Strydkraal, Mmotwaneng, has been quietly transforming his community through sustainable agricultural practices since 2011.
Although Tšhitšana A Mmaswi (his clan name) has several hectors of fertile land, he has only cultivated 6.5 hectares of land for over a decade. His farm, Morris Farm, is blessed with reliable water supply from the Lepelle River through a system of furrows, and produces a variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, cabbages, butternuts, and peppers.
“Water is the lifeblood of farming,” Sefoka remarked during an interview with African Farming at a recent agricultural gathering in Mphanama Village, Limpopo. “Having access to the Lepelle River has been crucial for maintaining consistent production throughout the years.”
In a country grappling with high unemployment rates, especially in rural areas, Tšhitšana A Mmaswi’s farm stands as a beacon of hope. He currently employs eight people – five women and three men – providing much-needed income to families in his village.
“These jobs may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but for these eight families, it means food on the table, children in school and dignity restored,” Sefoka explained. “Village farming has tremendous potential to create employment if properly supported.”
The employment opportunities extend beyond just farm labour. With expanded operations, village farms could support roles in processing, packaging, transportation and administration, creating a diverse range of jobs suitable for different skill levels and educational backgrounds.
Challenges Village Farmers Face
Like many small-scale farmers across South Africa, Sefoka faces significant challenges that limit his potential contribution to the national food security system. Climate change has introduced unpredictable weather patterns, with hailstorms occasionally damaging his crops.
“We need protective measures like cover nets to safeguard our produce, but these are expensive investments that small farmers struggle to afford without assistance,” he said.
Market access remains another persistent challenge. Despite producing high-quality vegetables, finding reliable markets can be difficult, especially for highly perishable produce.
“I’ve begun focusing more on crops that can be processed and have longer shelf life, like peppers,” Sefoka noted. “This helps reduce waste when immediate markets aren’t available.”
Agricultural experts consistently point to small-scale and village farming as an underutilised resource in addressing South Africa’s food security concerns. Collectively, village farmers cultivate thousands of hectares across the country, often using sustainable methods that preserve soil health and biodiversity.
Sefoka practices crop rotation to maintain soil quality, ensuring sustainable productivity year after year. This approach not only produces healthy food but also protects the environment for future generations.
Needs Of Village Farmers
For village farming to reach its full potential in contributing to food security and rural employment, targeted government support is essential. Sefoka and farmers like him need:
- Infrastructure investment – Including irrigation systems, protective structures and storage facilities.
- Market facilitation – Creating reliable connections between small farmers and bulk buyers.
- Technical training – Ongoing education about advanced farming techniques and climate adaptation
- Financial support – Access to affordable loans and grants specifically designed for small-scale farmers.
- Youth engagement programmes – Initiatives to attract young people to agriculture as a viable career path.
“With proper support, we could double or triple our production and employment,” Sefoka emphasised. “Village farming could transform rural economies while ensuring food security for the nation.”
Getting Youth People Involved In Farming
A particular concern for Sefoka is the reluctance of young people to embrace farming as a long-term career. Despite the potential for sustainable livelihoods, agriculture is often perceived as an occupation of last resort rather than a desirable profession.
“We need to change the narrative around farming,” he insisted. “With modern techniques, technology, and proper marketing, farming can be profitable and appealing to young people. But they need to see success stories and receive proper training and support.”
The story of Tšhitšana A Mmaswi illustrates how village farming can serve as an effective model for poverty alleviation in rural South Africa. By creating employment, producing nutritious food locally and establishing sustainable businesses, village farmers contribute significantly to their communities’ wellbeing.
If replicated and scaled up with appropriate government backing, these farming operations could dramatically reduce poverty rates in villages across the country while strengthening national food security.
