The Bayer Boervrou of the Year competition honours women in agriculture who play a vital role on the farm while also making a unique contribution to their communities.
By Marieke Snyman, Senior Journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
The competition was launched last year for the first time and focuses on two categories: Boervroue (farmers’ wives) and women who lead a farming enterprise (or farming division).
This year’s two category winners were announced at a breakfast event on Friday, 5 September in Centurion.
Women who Farm
Rosina Katlego Kubedi farms between Lichtenburg and Mahikeng in the North West. Her mixed farming enterprise focuses on maize and sunflower production, as well as Boer goats.
Boervrou
Margerite van Niekerk from Brits in the North West, where the family farms with vegetables, wheat, and soybeans.
“By shining a light on the value and purpose of women in agriculture, we acknowledge the leadership, ingenuity and compassion they bring to farming. That is why Bayer remains committed to honouring these women who make a difference on their farms, in their communities and in the agricultural industry at large,” says Marna Swart, Market Activation Manager at Bayer Crop Science South Africa.
“Behind every successful farm, every thriving crop and every innovative agricultural practice, are women who help ensure success. We want to recognise women who farm and Boervroue who are part of the agricultural industry – the backbone of our country’s economy. Today, we celebrate you!” says Wikus Boshoff, Maize Strategy Manager at Bayer Crop Science South Africa.
How the competition works
Women who farm, or Boervroue whose farms use one or more Bayer or DEKALB® products, can be nominated by themselves, their spouse, a Bayer or DEKALB® representative, family members, friends and/or community members.
The two category winners receive:
- Woman Farmer of the Year: R15 000 worth of Bayer or DEKALB® products.
- Boervrou category: R10 000 to be donated to a charity of her choice.
- A R2 000 gift voucher from Bayer.
- A R1 500 gift voucher from Uppe Marketing.
- Three signed books by author Milanie Vosloo.
