The !Xhariep Region of Agricultural Writers South Africa recently announced its 2025 winners in the New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture and Agriculturist of the Year award categories.
By Alani Janeke, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
Western Cape New Entrant to Commercial Farming
Sydney Claassen from Stellenbosch has been named the Western Cape’s New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture of the Year. Through his business, Pinehaven Farms, he has progressed from farm worker to commercial farmer, building a thriving 12-hectare vegetable enterprise that supplies leading retailers, including Woolworths. His focus on sustainable practices and mentoring fellow farmers has earned him respect across the region.
Eastern Cape New Entrant to Commercial Farming
Vumile Mzinzi of Matuana Agencies in the Mount Fletcher area has been named the Eastern Cape’s New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture of the Year. He manages a diversified 530-hectare operation producing maize, potatoes, soya beans and livestock. Mzinzi is known for his meticulous planning, scientific approach to farming and hands-on management.
Northern Cape New Entrant to Commercial Farming
Elize Gerda Beukes of G & E Beukes Boerdery in Eksteenskuil near Upington was named the Northern Cape’s New Entrant to Commercial Agriculture of the Year. She runs a mixed farming operation that includes vineyards, peanuts, lucerne and a rotational grazing system for livestock. Her commitment to professional development and sharing knowledge with aspiring farmers has made her an influential figure in the sector.
Also read: Agricultural Writers SA North honours farmers
Eastern Cape Agriculturalist of the Year
Quade Sing Jam, a compliance specialist with CropLife SA, was named the Eastern Cape’s Agriculturist of the Year. He is widely recognised for his expertise in pesticide safety, compliance and stewardship, particularly at farm level. Through training, workshops and regulatory guidance, he has advanced safety, sustainability and operational standards across the agricultural sector.
* These provincial award winners are all candidates for the national Agricultural Writers SA Awards, which will be announced at a gala event on 14 November.
