Soya bean farmer Hansie Viljoen from Leeudoringstad was named Grain SA and Syngenta’s 24th Grain Producer of the Year at a ceremony in Boksburg on 31 October. His farming operation spans two provinces and even a neighbouring country.
By Charl van Rooyen, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
Technology should be more affordable, and since farmers already support their local towns and communities, politicians should do their part and help level the playing field for producers. This is what Hansie Viljoen said in his acceptance speech after being named Grain Producer of the Year.
With a BAgric degree from the University of the Free State, Hansie started farming in 1986 with his parents, Boetie and Lina, in a mixed operation that included grain, livestock, a feedlot and dairy.
He later took over the reins, developing the enterprise from a family farm into a large, structured business in which his wife, Wilmarie, and three sons, Kobus, Dihan and Hendrikus, are all actively involved.
Today, Viljoen Boerdery extends across parts of the Free State and North West, to Ghanzi in Botswana. Their diversified operation includes both dryland and irrigated production, and a mill that adds value along the supply chain.
They grow maize, soya beans, potatoes and wheat, and farm with Droughtmaster and Simmentaler studs, as well as a commercial Charolais herd.
Also read: Engineer-turned-farmer wins 2025 Grain SA New Era Commercial Farmer Award
Teamwork, Resilience Key to Success
“We need to realise what good young people we have in South Africa,” Hansie said. “The team walking this farming path with me is incredibly loyal, and this award is also thanks to them.”
He said that partnerships with input suppliers also added value to his business.
“South Africa’s farmers have been producing more food on less land in recent years, thanks to good genetic material. Unfortunately, the cost squeeze is putting pressure on profitability. The answer is to remain resilient.”
Call for Affordable Technology and Fair Policies
Hansie called for greater affordability of agricultural technology, and urged politicians to create a fairer operating environment for farmers. “We just want to farm and not get involved in politics. Our farmers support their towns and communities.”
He also praised farmers for sharing their knowledge and experience with one another, especially when older farmers mentor younger ones. “God bless Africa,” he concluded.
