Boost for emerging potato farmers in Limpopo

In a move to support sustainable farming and the growth of SMMEs, the Kgodiso Development Fund has allocated funding to propel two potato farmers into the ranks of commercial farmers in South Africa.

The fund, founded by PepsiCo South Africa, aims to boost the agricultural landscape in Limpopo’s potato belt in the Capricorn district by investing in black-owned emerging farming enterprises.

One of the farmers, Phophi Raletjena, received R7 million in funding for his farming operation. This will enable him to cultivate 50ha of land, dedicating 30% to potato production for PepsiCo. He currently has a contract to supply potatoes to PepsiCo for its Simba chips business.

One million rand in funding was also allocated to Zelda Masoga for Mazeli Farming and Projects. This will see her grow potatoes across 10ha, and she has applied to supply potatoes for PepsiCo’s chip business.

Through this model, the fund not only provides funding to emerging farmers, but is also transforming supply chains by providing an important route to market for farmers.

Diale Tilo, executive director of the fund, said its mission extended beyond providing capital, also aiming to address the constraints limiting emerging farmers and SMMEs from realising their full potential. This comprehensive approach includes access to affordable capital, technical assistance, upskilling, and strategies for local ownership, which will ultimately guide emerging farmers towards becoming successful commercial farmers.

Expressing his excitement, Raletjena said: “Potatoes are a crop of the future, presenting opportunities to address food security. With the support from Simba, I’m on a mission to feed the world with potatoes.”

Raletjena has been mentoring Masoga, providing technical skills and the use of some of his farming equipment.

According to Raletjana, the full participation of women in the agriculture sector is imperative. He said the funding and contract for Masoga’s farm would allow her to be a shining example to other female farmers.

Masoga said: “In my humble beginnings, I initiated my farming venture with a small backyard plot. As demand steadily increased, it became evident that this space could no longer suffice.

“Subsequently, I expanded to a larger farm, a transition not without its hurdles, particularly as a woman farmer. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned the value of patience, as farming yields no instant gratification. With this financial injection, we are poised not only to expand our business but also to play a pivotal role in job creation, while ensuring that more families have food on their tables.” –

SUPPLIED Limpopo potato farmer Phophi Raletjena received R7 million in funding for his farming operation from the Kgodiso Development Fund.