By Maphuti Mongatane, Business Development Manager at African Farming
“Farming is not an overnight success, it’s a legacy in the making.” These words were spoken by Dirk Wolfaardt, the newly appointed CEO of the Schoeman Group, at the Zamukele Day of Celebration, a special annual event honouring black commercial farmers, partners, employees and agri-stakeholders in South Africa.
In his first public address since taking over the reins from Kallie Schoeman, who is now the Chairperson of the Group, Wolfaardt stepped into the space not just as a corporate leader but also as a generational custodian of a family legacy built over four generations. His message was clear: agriculture is not just business, it is purpose. It is patience. It is people.
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Learning From A Difficult Season
Reflecting on one of the most challenging planting and harvesting seasons the Group has faced, Wolfaardt reminded all present that farming is not only about collecting produce but also about honouring every struggle and every lesson that comes with it.
“We’re not just here to farm. We’re here to transform, to create and to sustain,” he said. “Every tonne of beans produced, every hectare planted, is a powerful step forward for the future of South African agriculture.” His words were a call to action: not to wait for perfect conditions but to build resilience, seek solutions and keep pushing forward.
This year’s Zamukele celebration was a tribute to the men and women who rise each day to feed a nation. Wolfaardt honoured these farmers as the beating heart of agricultural transformation – pioneers who are not just producing food but are also shaping livelihoods, securing communities and breaking generational barriers. “You are not just the future, you are the present. The trailblazers. The ones who are making agriculture inclusive, innovative and impactful.”
Also read: Expert advice from Success Mdluli, project manager of the Zamukele programme
True Partnerships Require Mutual Commitment
In a moment of powerful truth, Wolfaardt emphasised that real transformation can only happen through real relationships. “We walk this road together,” he said, stressing that the partnership between the Schoeman Group and its farmers must be built on mutual trust, respect and commitment. Support from the Group comes in many forms – mentorship, funding and shared platforms. But Wolfaardt reminded the audience that such support is only meaningful if farmers are dedicated and transparent, and have a long-term vision.
Perhaps the most inspiring moment came when Wolfaardt spoke directly to the farmers in the room: “The seeds you are planting in the soil and in your vision will feed generations to come.” He urged them to take full advantage of the Zamukele platform to learn, grow, earn and lead, because access to such a comprehensive support system is not only an opportunity but also a responsibility to push for more, together.
Also read: ‘How to build a sustainable farming enterprise’ – Success Mdluli, Schoeman Group
A Celebration Of Grit And Gratitude
As he concluded, Wolfaardt extended his heartfelt congratulations to every farmer regardless of their harvest size. “Every crop is a victory. Every challenge overcome is a milestone worth celebrating.” He also recognised the hardworking teams behind the scenes from field staff to directors who continue to make the Group’s purpose-driven mission a reality. vision.
He concluded with the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” His closing remarks reinforced a shared sense of direction and collaboration among those present.At African Farming, we salute leaders who honour legacy while building the future. The Schoeman Group, through Dirk Wolfaardt’s vision, continues to redefine what real transformation in agriculture looks like: deeply rooted, boldly grown and shared with purpose.
