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A new generation of farmers is proving success depends on more than rainfall. Two young producers are combining sound farming practices with the right soybean cultivars and a close working relationship with Pannar to lay the foundation for a resilient farming future.
When Obakeng Taje took over the family farm near Sannieshof in North West in 2015, following the passing of his father, he inherited far more than land. He became the custodian of a farming legacy stretching back five generations. Today, together with his business partner and brother, Thato Kgantsi, he is building on that legacy with a combination of careful management, continuous learning and trusted technical support from Pannar.
For the two farmers, soybean production is not simply about choosing seed. It is about selecting cultivars that perform consistently under their local conditions while working with partners who understand the realities of commercial farming.
They planted Pannar’s PAN 1521R soybean cultivar alongside PAN 1644R this season. Although both cultivars have their place in the production system, PAN 1521R has impressed them the most.
“We already see the difference in the field. Last season we planted a cultivar that didn’t perform as well. This year PAN 1521R shows excellent potential,” Thato says.
For producers farming under dryland conditions, every decision has a direct impact on profitability. Obakeng says they are constantly measuring success against realistic production goals. If a cultivar consistently produces higher yields, it contributes directly to the sustainability of the business.
“Last year was a difficult season,” Thato says. “We believe these cultivars will take us well beyond our previous yields. We are expecting around 3 tonnes per hectare, which would be an excellent result for our region.”
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But they are quick to point out that genetics alone do not produce successful crops.
Long before planting began, they gave considerable attention to soil preparation. Deep ripping formed part of their strategy to improve root development and water infiltration, giving plants the best possible opportunity to withstand periods of moisture stress.
This proved invaluable when prolonged dry conditions arrived during the growing season.
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They also believe strongly in being personally involved in every aspect of production. They spend their days in the fields, planting, monitoring crop development and responding quickly when problems arise.
“The best advice we’ve received is to always be present. You cannot solve problems you haven’t seen yourself. We don’t believe in simply delegating everything. We are on the tractors, in the lands and involved in every stage of production,” Obakeng says.
That hands-on approach extends to their relationship with Pannar. Obakeng and Thato describe their local Pannar representative as an integral part of their farming operation rather than simply a seed supplier. From selecting suitable cultivars to assisting with planning and ensuring seed is available when needed, the support extends far beyond product sales.
Thato says obtaining seed on time can become difficult when finances are under pressure, but Pannar’s representatives work alongside them to find practical solutions.
“We’ve developed such a good relationship that our representative has become more than a business contact. He’s like a father and a friend to us. We work together.”
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Partnership and preparation
As agriculture becomes increasingly knowledge-driven, technical support and strong relationships are becoming just as important as quality seed. The combination of improved genetics, sound agronomic practices and ongoing guidance gives farmers the confidence to make decisions that improve productivity season after season.
The partnership succeeds because the farmers are eager to learn and are committed to applying good farming practices, says Pannar sales representative Hendrik Mokoto.
“They are young farmers who are open to guidance and willing to implement recommendations. One thing that impressed me is their commitment to proper soil preparation. They ripped the land before planting, and despite about seven weeks of drought during January and February, the crop still looks excellent. Deep ripping allows roots to grow deeper and access moisture, reducing production risk and helping farmers manage costs effectively. Their willingness to invest in good agronomic practices sets them apart.”
For more information, call Hendrik Mokoto on 082 767 7333.
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