The 2025 Grain SA Grain Producer of the Year Awards held in Johannesburg on 31 October celebrated not only the excellence of South Africa’s top producers but also the partnerships and collective effort driving transformation across the agricultural sector.
Land Bank CEO Themba Rikhotso’s message reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to financing, inclusion and sustainability in farming. Standing before a packed audience of farmers, sponsors and government representatives, Rikhotso opened his address by expressing pride in Land Bank’s role as a sponsor of the Smallholder Farmer of the Year Award, a category that represents the spirit of South African agriculture.
“What we are witnessing tonight is a testament to the resilience, hard work and spirit of excellence that defines our sector,” Rikhotso said. “Our mandate goes beyond finance; it is about transforming agriculture by promoting the inclusion of historically disadvantaged farmers into the mainstream economy.”
Rikhotso highlighted that Land Bank’s strategy is built around partnerships and coordination of the agricultural ecosystem, ensuring that both new-era and commercial farmers are supported through integrated solutions, including pre- and post-funding support, access facilitation, financing and insurance.
Driving Transformation Through Impact Finance
In his address, Rikhotso shared tangible progress made through Land Bank’s Blended Finance Scheme, which has already approved transactions totalling nearly R4 billion for more than 480 clients, enabling agricultural activities across 900 000ha of farmland. He emphasised that transformation is more than an aspiration – it’s a measurable outcome.
“Through our subsidiary, the Land Bank Insurance Company, and initiatives such as the AgriBEE Fund, the Energy Fund and others, we are addressing key challenges faced by smallholder and new-era farmers,” he said.
Rikhotso’s message resonated with the evening’s spirit of excellence, closing with heartfelt congratulations to all finalists and winners.
“Your commitment and hard work are not only commendable but are an inspiration to all of us,” he said. “We wish you continued success, growth and a sustainable future ahead.”
Celebrating the Hands That Feed the Nation
The ceremony concluded on a celebratory note, with applause filling the room as the year’s top grain producers were honoured. The atmosphere captured the unity of purpose shared among farmers, agribusinesses, financiers and policymakers all committed to a common goal: a thriving, inclusive and sustainable agricultural future.
As the Land Bank continues to walk alongside farmers through innovative financial and insurance solutions, its message was clear: agriculture remains the heartbeat of South Africa’s economy, and its future depends on shared effort, resilience and transformation.
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