We previously wrote about Nozuko Cezula’s successful Beefmaster operation in KwaZulu-Natal. Here, we look at another part of her farming enterprise: a maize production business that supplies both local and international markets.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
Nozuko Cezula’s journey from teaching to farming with cattle to commercial maize production shows how someone with determination can build a strong farming business. The 49-year-old farmer from Kokstad has transformed Tafelkop farm into a significant grain production operation serving both domestic and export markets.
Her path into agriculture began while she was still working as a teacher. She owned a tractor and secured government contracts to plough fields for farmers in the area. Through this work, she developed a strong interest in crop production and began planning her transition into full-time farming.
Also read: Former female teacher now herds over 200 Beefmaster cattle
A Full-Time Farmer
Nozuko’s farming enterprise took shape during the 2011-’12 season, when she left teaching to focus on farming full time. She initially farmed with Beefstock cattle, supplying weaners to Karan Beef.
She later expanded into grain farming as part of her diversification strategy under Nozuko Farming. This expansion built on the experience she had already gained through her tractor services business.
Support from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development played an important role in expanding her grain enterprise. Between 2022 and 2024, the department provided mechanisation support so she could do proper soil preparation for optimal yields.
Today, Nozuko has 300 hectares planted to yellow maize. She supplies about 1 500 tonnes annually to Kokstad Milling, a reliable local partner, and exports a further 1 500 tonnes to Mexico through an agent.
Also read: At 21, Euphros Rametsi is building a future in livestock farming
Recognition for Export Success
Nozuko’s export achievement was recognised at the Phezukomkhono Female Entrepreneur Awards, where she received the award in the Best Export category, along with prize money of R100 000. The award acknowledged her contribution to agricultural exports and foreign exchange earnings.
Job Creation and Community Impact
Nozuko’s farming operation currently employs 21 workers, including six permanent staff members who receive full employment benefits. Her business continues to create valuable employment opportunities in her local community while maintaining professional production standards.
At the Phezukomkhono Awards ceremony, Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted Nozuko’s operation as an example of how government support, when used effectively, can help farmers build sustainable and independent agricultural businesses.
Her maize production success story continues to encourage other women and emerging farmers to consider agriculture as a viable career path, showing that with planning, support and persistence, commercial-scale success is possible.
Also read:
Less fertiliser, better yields: US maize farmer shares lessons
A-maize-ing harvest for Potch agricultural school
Investing in genetics: How Beefmaster farmer Dr Lesia built a thriving enterprise
