For a decade, Tebello Christopher Nonyane has worked quietly but critically behind the scenes of South Africa’s food production system. As junior foreman overseeing irrigation at Beefmaster Group’s feedlot, he ensures that every drop of water supports healthy crops and a reliable feed supply, an essential part of getting nutritious beef onto South African tables.
By Lebogang Mashala, Editor at African Farming
“Food security means that every person has reliable access to enough affordable, nutritious food for a healthy life. It’s about more than having something to eat; it’s about ensuring that what people eat sustains them,” says Tebello.
This belief fuels his work.
“It is very rewarding being part of something bigger than oneself and contributing to ensuring a more food-secure nation,” he adds.
Beefmaster Group, a major supplier of beef locally and globally, relies on efficient production systems to keep nutritious beef affordable and accessible. Tebello’s work in irrigation is one of the foundations of that system.
From Labourer to Leader
Tebello was born and raised in Senekal in the Free State, far from the agricultural hub of Christiana, where Beefmaster is based. When he joined the company in 2015, it was as a general labourer. His rise since then reflects both personal determination and the company’s investment in its people.
“I started as a labourer, then became a pivot operator, and today I’m a team leader,” he says.
Over the years, he completed several learnerships, including Generic Management and Business Administration. With support from Beefmaster, he furthered his education by studying for a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting at the Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology.
Today, he manages irrigation strategies to improve yields, maintains complex centre-pivot systems and leads a team of operators. The work is hands-on and often demanding.
“Every day brings new challenges. But there’s nothing like solving a complex problem. Overcoming obstacles is where real growth happens,” he says.
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Why His Work Matters
South Africa’s food security landscape underscores the importance of skilled, reliable agricultural workers like Tebello.
The South African Food Security Index 2025 reports slight improvement compared with 2024 because of falling food inflation. Still, millions of people remain vulnerable. Most households (80.8%) consumed more than six food groups, yet almost 20% consumed too few. The Free State recorded the worst dietary diversity, with nearly half the population (49.3%) eating three or fewer food groups daily. The Northern Cape followed at 42.2%.
Globally, the situation remains fragile. According to the World Health Organization’s State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 report, food insecurity is worsening across parts of Africa and western Asia. In 2024, about 307 million Africans, one in five people, faced hunger.
These realities amplify the value of strong, efficient supply chains, from irrigation and feed production to processing and distribution.
“I’m proud to be part of a company that feeds families. Knowing that my work helps ensure people have access to nutritious food motivates me to work even harder,” says Tebello.
Also read: Emerging commercial farmer Lindiwe Motlakala receives farming equipment from MEC
A Decade of Purpose
Tebello’s 10-year journey with Beefmaster shows how individual dedication, combined with the right support, contributes directly to national food security. His progression from general labourer to team leader embodies the potential within South Africa’s agricultural workforce.
As the country continues its fight against hunger and malnutrition, it will rely on people like Tebello – skilled, committed and purpose-driven – who help keep the food system functioning. Their work may not always be visible, but its impact is felt across households and communities every day.
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