Young farmers should equip themselves with knowledge

There is a growing number of young people showing an interest in pursuing a career in agriculture, and many are seeking information about how to start a farming operation.

Mbali Nwoko, of Green Terrace near Boksburg, is a good example of how young people are becoming involved in agriculture.

Earlier this year, I visited Nwoko, and she told me about the challenges and opportunities she had encountered. One of her major challenges was access to finance, but she also said that there was willingness from role players in the sector to assist new entrants.

“Despite doing everything I could to supply only the best produce, find markets and establish cash flow, it was still difficult to acquire funding for working capital to grow my business,” she said.

Her story has taught me about determination, and how to go about researching and finding information about the sector you want to enter, as well as pinpointing specific details about the commodity you wish to farm. Nwoko’s willingness to learn and find information allowed her to create networks that could assist her in moving her business forward.

“When you’re a female farmer, it’s difficult for male farmers to open up to you, but I kept asking for help until they offered me the assistance I needed. With the support of a few mentors, I’ve now established my own way of farming,” she said.

Siya nda Sishuba