Another week has flown by, and with the rising temperatures across most parts of the country, farmers are beginning to prepare for the summer production season. For many, this is a season of optimism – a time to look ahead to planting, grazing and the promise of new harvests. Yet, for some farmers, preparation is not only about the next production cycle but also about the future of their farms once they themselves can no longer run them. I recently spoke to an elderly farmer who shared a concern that resonates with many in agriculture: what will happen to his farm when he can no longer manage it? His children, though successful in their own right, have no interest in farming. His words made me reflect on the importance of succession planning and whether we should limit the idea of succession to our children alone.
By Lebogang Mashala, Editor at African Farming
A story that comes to mind is that of Keneilwe Raphesu, who today runs a thriving cattle, pig and grain farm. In 2020, her grandfather, Dr Mamabolo Raphesu, decided to pull back from the day-to-day running of the business and handed the reins over to her. What makes their succession story unique is that it skipped a generation. Dr Raphesu’s own children, despite being capable, chose different paths in life and were not interested in continuing the farming enterprise. But Keneilwe had always been by his side, shadowing him in the kraals, fields and sheds, so it felt natural to entrust her with the responsibility.
Importantly, before she took over, Keneilwe pursued formal training at the Sernick Group for emerging cattle farmers. She understood that passion and hands-on experience were not enough; professional training would help her run the farm with modern efficiency and vision.
This is a crucial lesson: succession is not simply about choosing who takes over, but also about ensuring they are prepared for the responsibilities that come with managing land, livestock, people and business.
Keneilwe’s story highlights a broader truth: succession planning is essential for the survival of family farms and agribusinesses. Without it, farms risk collapse when the founder steps back or passes on.
We have all seen examples in our communities where once-thriving businesses fail because no one was ready to continue the legacy.
Succession planning is not only about retirement. It is about preparing for continuity, safeguarding assets, ensuring stability and carrying forward the vision that built the farm in the first place. For the broader agricultural sector, it is about sustainability: farms that survive generational changes strengthen food security, local economies and rural communities.
This brings us to a critical question: how do we instil interest in farming among the next generation? The truth is, there is no guaranteed way to make your children love farming. They must choose it for themselves. But parents and elders can nurture curiosity and appreciation for agriculture. I’ve witnessed that the current generation takes this seriously, perhaps more than we sometimes give them credit for. They remind me, time and again, that the secret lies in starting early. Take children with you to the fields, kraals or greenhouses. Let them see a seed being planted, a calf being born or a crop being harvested. These moments are powerful teachers.
But equally, it is important to accept that not everyone is destined for agriculture. Some children will find their purpose elsewhere, and that is perfectly fine. A strong family relationship should never be sacrificed in an attempt to force succession. Just as Dr Raphesu did, sometimes the successor may not be a child, but a grandchild, relative or even a trusted employee who has walked the farming journey with you.
When the time comes to hand over responsibilities, it is important to do it fully. Too many farms suffer when founders remain “back-seat drivers”, unable to let go of decision-making.
This creates tension, slows progress and discourages the next generation. A good succession plan balances support with freedom: the elder provides guidance, but the new leader is allowed to own their role, make mistakes and learn. It reminds me of the story of a young man, Mbuleleni Manuel, who we have featured in the current special edition of African Farming magazine.
Mistakes are not failures but lessons. Farming, after all, has always been about resilience, adapting and trying again after setbacks. A new generation of farmers will not always do things the way their elders did, but with patience, mentorship and trust, they can build on the legacy that came before them. Handled with foresight, love and wisdom, succession planning not only secures the future of one farm but also strengthens the resilience of the agricultural sector. As we head into the weekend, sports lovers are in for a real treat. Weekend enkulu!
This Saturday kicks off at 3pm with a massive clash as the Buccaneers lock horns with Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semifinal second leg. Then the action shifts to the rugby field, where the Springboks take on the Wallabies once again. All the best to the teams – may the best sides win!
