Imbizo 2026 | Building confidence and attracting investment in emerging farmers

At the African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026 in Pretoria, Praveen Dwarika, head of AFGRI Farmer Development, shared insights on how emerging farmers can build sustainable, investment-ready agribusinesses.

By Marieke Snyman, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad

Speaking to an audience of aspiring and established producers, Dwarika emphasised the importance of technical capacity, financial literacy and responsible business practices in creating opportunities for long-term growth.

“Emerging farmers often think of financial solutions as simply borrowing from a bank,” Dwarika noted. “But how do we change that narrative and attract investors into our business?”

He highlighted that the path to investment begins with understanding one’s own business, packaging information effectively, and being ready to answer tough questions from potential financiers.

Information is Key

Dwarika explained that regardless of the size of the farm, information must be clear, credible and transparent.

“You may understand your back-of-the-matchbox calculations for profit and loss,” he said, “but how does an investor unpack that to decide whether to invest their hard-earned money into your venture?”

He stressed the importance of demonstrating compliance with labour laws, creating sustainable jobs and meeting regulatory requirements – critical factors for investors evaluating the risk and impact of their funding.

He also encouraged farmers to consider their position within the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) framework.

“Because we are 100% black-owned entities, does that automatically tick all the boxes? Investors will look at job creation, responsible labour practices, and governance,” Dwarika said.

Praveen Dwarika, head of AFGRI Farmer Development, speaking at the African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026. Video: Talitha Janse van Vuuren

Environmental Responsibility and ESG

Another key point was the role of environmental stewardship. Referencing environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles, Dwarika reminded the audience of the sector’s responsibility to reverse environmental damage caused by industrial agriculture.

“Investors want to know that water is used responsibly, that biodiversity is protected, and that farming practices are sustainable for the next 20 years,” he said.

He encouraged farmers to seek expert guidance to balance profit with environmental responsibility, showing that sustainability and commercial success can coexist.

Planning for Long-Term Success

Dwarika also urged emerging farmers to think beyond immediate profits.

“Have you considered succession planning? Who will run your farm if you are no longer able to? This is vital to guarantee long-term returns for investors,” he explained.

Integrating into the value chain – through processing or value-adding initiatives – was another strategy he recommended to de-risk agricultural investment and maximise revenue potential.

He emphasised that diversification and strategic value addition are not only financially beneficial for the farmer but also reassuring for investors.

“A better return for the investor starts with a better return for you as the farmer,” Dwarika said.

Partnership and Support

Concluding his talk, Dwarika reaffirmed AFGRI’s commitment to emerging farmers.

“We are a 103-year-old company with deep expertise in agribusiness. My team and I are here over the next two days to engage with you on any issue – technical, financial or strategic. We want to partner with you in whichever way you allow us the opportunity,” he said.

By focusing on capacity building, financial readiness, ESG compliance and strategic integration, Dwarika painted a roadmap for emerging farmers seeking investment and long-term sustainability. His message was clear: Attracting investors is as much about responsible business and environmental stewardship as it is about production figures.

African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026

The African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026 is 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.