UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL…

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?

If you want to do something, do it now. For example, if you see that a cow is not good, attend to it immediately rather than waiting.

IF THERE IS ONE THING YOU COULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY, WHAT WOULD IT HAVE BEEN?

I’m still in love with poultry farming, I wish I could have found a bigger poultry farm.

WHAT HAS YOUR SINGLE BIGGEST SUCCESS BEEN TO DATE?

Being disciplined has helped me transition successfully from farming poultry to farming grain.

WHO HAS MADE THE BIGGEST CONTRIBUTION TO YOUR SUCCESS?

My wife, Mandy Sadiki. She is an accountant and her input and advice have been invaluable. My parents have also given me a lot of support and allowed me space to grow in this sector.

WHAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP DO YOU HAVE WITH YOUR NEIGHBOURING FARMERS AND WHAT ROLE HAVE THEY PLAYED IN YOUR SUCCESS?

I have the best relationship with all my neighbouring farmers. I grew up in a village where we all depended on one another. This is what is happening here with my neighbours who are all white.

WAS IT A STRUGGLE TO GET FINANCING AND WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR MONEY?

It was indeed a struggle and it took me years to get the finance. My advice is that when you finally get finance, set a good example and keep records.

WHAT ROLE HAVE INPUT SUPPLIERS, LIKE ANIMAL HEALTH COMPANIES, PLAYED IN THE BUSINESS?

My suppliers are very much involved in the running of the farm, especially the chemical suppliers who are always available to assist on site.

IF THERE WAS A SINGLE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU COULD GIVE THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Allocate farms to people who deserve them. Repossess farms that are not being utilised and give them to people who need them. We are sitting with tracts of unused land while food production is declining.