Young farmer shows growth in agriculture
NUMEROUS challenges in the farming sector haven't dampened Thandeka Myeni's drive for success in the agricultural sector.
Myeni (25) is an ambassador for the South32 Eco-Hub Project, spearheaded by South32 Hillside Aluminium and implemented by the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (Wessa).
This two-year agricultural skills training initiative was instrumental in uplifting 20 youth from unemployment, and equipping the graduates with skills in sustainable farming and SMME development.
These include administration, entrepreneurial, leadership and marketing skills, conflict resolution, computer literacy, planting, sorting and harvesting seedlings.
Myeni excelled in the programme, earning an accolade for the most innovative and sustainable business plan.
Saving her stipend for start-up capital, Myeni's company Umlingo Agri Project has been registered, and this Hluhluwe vegetable
farmer has created 30 temporary jobs for locals on her 3-hectare plot since last February.
''Farming was new to me but I was passionate to learn and join the fight against food insecurity and the high unemployment rate," she explained.
"Despite facing challenges, the support from the South32 EcoHub Project equipped us with many skills to overcome challenges that arise.
''Due to water issues in our area, we can only plant beans and maize, and we can plant only twice a year.
''We have had pests destroying our crops, no running water, and rabbits devouring our crop as we do not have any fencing.
''We would like to dig a dam and have three 10 000lt water tanks for irrigation," she said, adding they were looking for sponsors to assist with fencing.
Sharing advice with others, she said, "Do not be afraid to start small, you need to take action and be consistent with farming as this sector is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but needs lots of patience."
Anyone who can sponsor Myeni's ongoing farming challenges can contact her on
072 9537362.