Farmers, industry experts and stakeholders recently gathered at Ya Rona Temo farm outside Sebokeng in Gauteng, owned by Amos Njoro, for a highly engaging Pannar Farmers’ Day. The focus was on managing risk and maximising profit through smart hybrid selection and agronomic precision.
By Maphuti Mongatane, business development manager at African Farming
The day began with a practical field walk, where farmers were taken through live demonstrations of maize cultivar performance. Hybrids such as PAN 3R-524R, 3P-924PW, 3P-912PW, 4P-932PW, 4P-928PW, 5R-582R and 6R-584R were showcased, giving farmers a real opportunity to compare adaptability, plant health and yield potential under local conditions.
What stood out was the strong emphasis on practical learning, informed decision-making and farmer-to-farmer knowledge exchange.
Trials that Drive Decisions: Amos Njoro
Host farmer Amos Njoro welcomed guests and shared powerful insights into the importance of on-farm trials. He emphasised that farming today requires precision, research and informed investment decisions, especially in the face of climate variability and rising input costs. Amos highlighted that trials help farmers understand which hybrids perform best in their specific environments. Climate uncertainty is forcing farmers to rethink planting times and hybrid choices. Profitability depends on making the right decisions from the start.
He encouraged farmers not to rely solely on external recommendations but to test and observe performance within their own conditions.
A New Generation of Farmers: Resego Njoro
Resego Njoro, a second-generation farmer on Ya Rona Temo, showed the importance of hands-on farm management and technical precision. He took farmers through the full production process, including:
- Soil preparation methods;
- Fertiliser application strategies; and
- Planting and population management.
His message was that successful farming lies in the details: consistent management, careful planning and understanding every stage of production.
Knowledge as the Foundation of Profit: Caiphas Muyambo
Pannar Seed’s Caiphas Muyambo delivered a strong agronomic and business-focused presentation, linking field performance directly to farm profitability.
He highlighted:
- The rising cost of production and the need for efficient input use;
- The importance of soil testing and planning ahead;
- The role of hybrid selection as a risk management tool; and
- The need for farmers to continuously build knowledge and question recommendations.
His key message was: “Knowledge is the foundation of success in farming.”
Collaboration is Key: Phillip Hollenbach
Phillip Hollenbach, Pannar’s regional manager and national farmer development manager, encouraged farmers to use the day as an opportunity to engage, collaborate and learn from one another. He reminded farmers that:
- Farming is not done in isolation;
- Sharing experiences strengthens the entire sector; and
- Events like these create space for real conversations and practical solutions.
Supporting Farmers Beyond the Field: Sibusiso Mabuza
Sibusiso Mabuza, CEO of Phahama Grain Phakama, reinforced the importance of structured support systems for farmers. He spoke about:
- The need for relevant service offerings tailored to farmers’ needs;
- Improving access to funding and financial solutions; and
- Building organisations that genuinely support farmer development and growth.
His contribution highlighted that partnerships and financial support are critical in unlocking farmer success.
Government Support and Continued Partnerships
The event was also supported by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, with chief director Mncedisi Madolo representing MEC Vuyiswa Ramokgopa.
His presence reaffirmed the importance of:
- Strong collaboration between government and farmers;
- Ongoing support for initiatives that empower farmers on the ground; and
- Building a more inclusive and productive agricultural sector.
A Platform that Matters
The Pannar Farmers’ Day at Ya Rona Temo was a platform for learning, connection and growth.
From hybrid trials to technical insights and stakeholder engagement, the day reinforced the fact that farmers need access to knowledge, technology and partnerships to truly succeed.
Also read and watch:
‘The soil and our agri-businesses can transform the future’ – Resego Njoro
Pannar walks in step with the next generation
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