Access to finance, smart partnerships and effective risk management emerged as key themes during a high-level panel discussion on day two of the African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026. Moderated by African Farming editor Lebogang Peter Mashala, the session brought together financial and agricultural development experts to unpack practical solutions for funding and sustaining farming operations in a challenging environment.

By Marieke Snyman, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad

A strong focus on collaboration and structured financial planning defined the panel discussion, as industry players explored how to unlock growth in agriculture through coordinated efforts.

Mashala steered the conversation towards actionable insights, pressing panellists on timelines, risks and the real-world implications of financing models for farmers.

Insurance and Managing Risk

Pascal Siphugu of Land Bank Insurance Company highlighted the importance of adapting insurance solutions to the realities of agriculture. He explained that expanded coverage for the sector is already under way.

“We’re looking at approximately R2.8 million in additional premiums,” he said. “The risk assessment shows moderate exposure given the seasonal variations.”

He added that implementation could move quickly if stakeholders cooperate: “We can have the extended coverage in place in the agreed timeline, provided we receive all the necessary documentation.”

His comments underscored the balancing act between affordability and adequate protection in a sector highly exposed to weather and market volatility.

Also read: Imbizo 2026 | Banking and risk: Key insights for modern farmers

Financing Structures and Partnerships

The discussion then shifted to development finance and partnerships, with Sylvester Lubambo of AFGRI Farmer Development outlining a proposed model aimed at scaling agricultural projects.

“The partnership structure we’re proposing involves a 60-40 split on the development projects,” he explained.

“AFGRI would take the majority stake given our operational expertise, but the financing would be shared proportionally.”

Lubambo said the model is designed to combine technical know-how with shared financial responsibility, reducing pressure on emerging farmers while ensuring accountability.

From a brokerage perspective, Marcia Hlanjwa of Kuwala Brokers and Administration Services pointed to the cost implications of such deals.

“The transaction costs would be approximately R180 000, plus ongoing management fees of 0,5% annually,” she noted, highlighting the need for farmers to factor in these expenses when entering structured agreements.

Also read: Funding agribusiness ventures: Legal considerations for investors and startups

Banking Perspective and Returns

Andrie Greeff of Standard Bank provided a financial lens, confirming that the numbers behind the proposed partnerships are promising.

“The IRR (internal rate of return) calculations show a projected return of 14,2% over five years, which is above our hurdle rate,” he said.

However, he cautioned that risks remain.

“The main risk factors are commodity price volatility and weather-related impacts, but those are manageable with proper hedging strategies.”

His remarks reinforced the importance of financial discipline and risk mitigation tools in ensuring long-term sustainability.

Cash Flow and Timelines

Cash flow projections were another critical talking point, with Mashala highlighting expectations of improved financial performance if planned interventions proceed.

“Based on the revised projections, we’re looking at positive cash flow by September,” he said, noting that this depends on successful implementation of financing, insurance and partnership agreements.

The panel agreed that timing is crucial, particularly when aligning funding approvals, insurance cover and operational rollouts.

Also read: Trust the numbers, not tradition, when making farming decisions

Operational Challenges and Support

While optimism was evident, the panellists did not shy away from practical challenges, particularly around implementation.

Lubambo emphasised AFGRI’s willingness to support partners beyond financing.

“From our side, we have extensive experience with similar integrations. We’d be happy to share our best practices and even provide some technical support during the transition,” he said.

Greeff estimated that additional costs for training and system integration could range between R200 000 and R300 000, stressing the importance of budgeting for these often-overlooked expenses.

Compliance and Communication

Regulatory compliance and stakeholder communication also featured prominently.

The panel agreed that transparency is key, particularly when restructuring debt or entering new partnerships. Clear communication strategies – starting with major announcements followed by detailed disclosures – were recommended to maintain trust with stakeholders.

Also read: Business advice from livestock farmer Thabo Dithakgwe

Monitoring Progress

To ensure accountability, a structured monitoring framework is recommended, with monthly progress reports for the first six months and quarterly updates thereafter. This approach allows for timely adjustments and reflects a broader shift towards data-driven decision-making in agriculture, where performance tracking is essential for both financiers and farmers.

A Collaborative Path Forward

Closing the session, Mashala emphasised the importance of coordination among all role players.

The discussion made it clear that no single solution exists for the financial challenges facing agriculture. Instead, success will depend on integrated approaches that combine funding, insurance, technical support and strong partnerships.

As the Imbizo continued, the message from this panel was clear: Sustainable agricultural growth will require not just access to finance, but smarter, more collaborative ways of using it.

From Left: Sylvester Lubambo (Afgri Farmer Development), Pascal Siphugu (Land Bank Insurance Company), Marcia Hlanjwa (Kuwala Brokers And Administration Services) And Andrie Greeff (Standard Bank). Photo: Talitha Janse Van Vuuren — From left: Sylvester Lubambo (AFGRI Farmer Development), Pascal Siphugu (Land Bank Insurance Company), Marcia Hlanjwa (Kuwala Brokers and Administration Services) and Andrie Greeff (Standard Bank). Photo: Talitha Janse van Vuuren

African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026

The African Farming Agri-Development Imbizo 2026 took place on 26 and 27 March at Time Square Hotel in Pretoria. This two-day event brought together more than 200 farmers, agribusiness entrepreneurs, policymakers, financiers and industry leaders. The goal was 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.