African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026 – Meet the speakers: Dr Lerato Matsaunyane

Dr Lerato Matsaunyane – Agricultural Research Council

Dr Lerato Matsaunyane is a distinguished researcher and leader at South Africa’s Agricultural Research Council (ARC), based at the Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants (VIMP) campus in Roodeplaat.

As Research Team Manager for Farmer Support, Commercialisation and Enterprise Development, she works to transform small-scale agriculture by improving crop production, particularly potatoes, and supporting farmers in building sustainable agribusinesses.

A pioneer of the Living Labs approach, Dr Matsaunyane fosters collaboration between researchers, farmers and communities to co-create practical agricultural solutions in real-world settings. She leads capacity-building initiatives, including training programmes for small-scale entrepreneurs on agro-processing and value-added products, such as honeybush-infused jams and jellies.

Her research spans plant breeding, biotechnology and agricultural innovation, and she actively manages intellectual property to ensure scientific discoveries are effectively translated into market-ready solutions.

Recognised for her academic excellence, she holds a PhD and has received awards including the Distinguished Graduate Student Award at ARC-VOP.

Also read: Bold roots, brave futures: Entrepreneurs redefining agribusiness in South Africa

African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo

The third African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo is designed to help turn that ambition into action.

Taking place on 26 and 27 March at Time Square Hotel in Pretoria, this two-day event will bring together more than 200 farmers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, policymakers, financiers and industry leaders. The goal is clear: To align resources, unlock opportunities and strengthen partnerships that will accelerate the growth of South Africa’s new generation of commercial farmers.

Hosted by African Farming, the Imbizo builds on a strong commitment to advancing black commercial agriculture through information-sharing, networking and development-driven platforms.

To register, contact:
Grant Solomons
071 914 7685
Grant.Solomons@media24.com

Companies and organisations looking to position their brand within the agricultural sector are invited to participate. For different sponsorship packages, and exhibition and table sponsorship options, reach out to:
Maphuti Mongatane
071 374 9379
maphuti.mongatane@media24.com