The African Farming and Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Production and Money Matters for Farmers workshop, held at the Vanderbijlpark campus on 30 April 2026, delivered practical knowledge, industry insights and real-world strategies to equip farmers for long-term success.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
Designed as a hands-on learning platform, the workshop focused on strengthening both production and financial management skills. Farmers were guided on how to improve productivity, enhance profitability and build sustainable agricultural enterprises. Central themes included market access, value chain integration and the financial discipline required to run a viable farming business in an increasingly competitive environment.
The session brought together farmers, students and industry experts, creating a dynamic space for knowledge exchange and skills development. Real-life success stories added depth to the discussions, illustrating how strategic decision-making, resilience and active participation in formal markets can transform farming operations into thriving businesses.
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Opening the event, Dr Annie Moletsane, Director of Student Academic Development Support and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at VUT, welcomed attendees and highlighted the growing partnership between the university and African Farming. She outlined plans to introduce accredited short courses tailored to farmers’ needs, aimed at building capacity and formalising skills within the sector. Moletsane encouraged farmers to take full advantage of the university’s resources, positioning VUT as a key partner in agricultural development.
A strong emphasis was placed on financial discipline and bankability. Sylvester Lubambo of AFGRI Farmer Development stressed that turning a farm into a bankable business requires a mindset shift – from viewing farming as a lifestyle to managing it as a structured commercial enterprise. He noted that lenders prioritise consistent profitability, accurate record-keeping and clear repayment plans over asset ownership alone.
Nkosana Mtambo of Mtambo Boerdery unpacked entrepreneurship and diversification. He encouraged farmers to explore multiple income streams to build resilience. However, he cautioned against premature diversification, advising farmers to first master their core enterprise before expanding into new ventures.
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Market access remained a critical focus area. Someleze Jali, head of the Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market, provided practical guidance on navigating fresh produce markets, highlighting compliance, quality standards and consistency as key factors for success. He emphasised that formal markets offer significant growth opportunities for farmers who are prepared and properly positioned.
On financial management, Riaan Govender of Waterfall Chartered Accountants Chambers underlined the importance of working with qualified accountants. Proper documentation, accurate financial statements and compliant tax returns are not only essential for business health but also critical when seeking funding or investment.
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The importance of relationships and networks was strongly echoed by Hlobisile Yende of Yende and Partners/AgriDuo, who shared how strategic connections transformed her own farming journey. She urged farmers to approach industry events with intention, ensuring every opportunity translates into meaningful business relationships.
Livestock farmers were encouraged to embrace traceability systems by Ernest Makua of Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), who explained how tracking animals from birth enhances transparency, protects value and strengthens disease control measures – particularly in the face of outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease. Traceability systems, including tagging technologies, also play a vital role in combating stock theft.
Genetic improvement was another key pillar discussed. Sernick Group’s Tebogo Molele highlighted that investing in superior genetics is a long-term strategy that delivers cumulative gains in productivity and profitability. By focusing on traits such as fertility, feed efficiency and disease resistance, farmers can produce more with fewer inputs. Tools such as artificial insemination, genomic selection and crossbreeding were identified as practical pathways to achieving these outcomes.
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Access to funding remains one of the biggest barriers for many farmers. Kabelo Maponyane of Nedbank and Keneilwe Raphesu of Mogalemole Farms and AgriDuo addressed this in detail. Both emphasised that securing finance requires more than just a good idea – it demands compliance, structure and proof of viability. Farmers were advised to formalise their businesses through registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and ensure tax compliance with the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Essential documentation, including land access agreements, water rights and operating permits, must also be in place.
Crucially, both speakers stressed the importance of accurate financial records and a well-developed, bankable business plan that clearly demonstrates the farm’s ability to generate income and repay loans.
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Overall, the workshop reinforced a clear message: Successful farming today requires more than production skills; it demands business acumen, financial discipline and strategic thinking. By bridging the gap between knowledge and practical application, the African Farming and VUT partnership is playing a critical role in shaping a new generation of commercially minded, resilient farmers.
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