In the rolling hills of Somerset East in the Eastern Cape, a story of determination, savvy business sense and a deep love for the land is inspiring a new generation of farmers. This is the story of Simphiwe Fani, a former policeman who traded his badge for livestock farming and is now a celebrated champion of land reform.
By Papi Kubeka, Siphe Zantsi, Khaled Abutaleb and Bonolo Mosuwe, Agricultural Research Council
Simphiwe’s journey did not begin in an office, it began in the fields of his childhood. His love of farming dates back to his childhood. His father was a farmer too, and had cattle, and Simphiwe used to herd the livestock. This experience planted a seed that would eventually result in him leaving his secure job as a police officer to pursue his passion full time. In 2013, after a five-year application process, that dream found a home. Through the Land Reform Programme, Simphiwe and his brother Linda secured a 30-year lease on a 4 560ha farm, forming a successful family joint venture.
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Starting with 85 cattle, Simphiwe’s enterprise has grown into an impressive multifaceted operation. Today, the farm boasts:
- 153 cattle for beef production;
- 1 400 goats for high-quality mohair; and
- 1 300 sheep for wool.
This isn’t a story of waiting for handouts. Simphiwe was already farming before acquiring the land, and his success is built on a foundation of sharp business acumen and strategic planning. He practises a meticulous three-month camp rotation system to prevent overgrazing, believing that to be successful you must “take care of your pastures… Try to fix the land.”
The Gamble that Paid off: A Lesson in Loan Repayment
A pivotal moment in his growth was a R1.5 million loan from Mohair South Africa. The initial agreement was standard: Simphiwe would keep 75% of his income and repay 25% towards the loan. But Simphiwe saw a faster way forward. In a bold move, he flipped the arrangement, choosing to take only 25% for himself and repay 75% of his income. This disciplined sacrifice allowed him to clear the massive loan in just three years, an achievement so remarkable it earned him an award for Best Loan Repayment. This decision, he explains, also gave him a fixed salary, providing crucial stability for his family.
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Linda’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. His trophy cabinet includes:
- An Eastern Cape Beef Award from the Agricultural Research Council;
- Best Boer Goat at the Kudu Competition in Pearston; and
- Best Ewe Award for his sheep.
He credits part of his success to the targeted support he received from the government, which included 10km of boundary fencing, a wind turbine for water and a renovated shearing shed. He also highly rates the mentorship provided by a stud breeder, whom he rated 4/5, acknowledging that the mentor’s guidance was key to developing his “good and quality goats”.
Secrets to Success and a Vision for the Future
When asked about the secret behind his success, Simphiwe’s advice is straightforward: “Leave the business money alone. Don’t take from the business for personal wants. Be hands-on at the farm, as there’s no substitute for personal oversight. Don’t take unnecessary loans. Be strategic with debt. Emphasise the importance of recordkeeping. Farming is a business that requires standards.”
He offers a crucial message for other land reform beneficiaries: “The beneficiaries wait for the government assistance to make progress on their farms. The best model is that the government should find you farming and help you with expansion.”
Looking ahead, Simphiwe’s vision extends beyond his own farm. In 10 years, he hopes to open a business that will employ his entire family, helping to curb the high unemployment in South Africa. He is also ready and willing to mentor other emerging farmers, paying his success forward. Simphiwe Fani’s story is more than a personal triumph, it’s a powerful blueprint for how land reform can work when paired with passion, perseverance and impeccable business sense. He is not just farming the land, he is nurturing a legacy.
Also read:
Agricultural initiative helps KZN rural youth fight unemployment
Land reform – the path towards equitable development
Land reform still falling short – Minister Nyhontso
