Frank Monaheng, who farms the lush soil in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, represents the future of agriculture in South Africa. To revolutionize agriculture and serve as an example to the next generation of farmers, Monaheng is using black soil to great effect on his 1060-hectare Mora Farming Project.
As Monaheng explains, “I needed land and financial support” when he first started farming in 1992. His interest in the place was undying, but getting there was difficult. The transition to democracy in South Africa in 1994 ushered in a surge of change and opened up new opportunities, easing the way toward leased farms and financial aid.
Monaheng’s perseverance paid off when he sought assistance from the DALRRD (Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development). He was given a second chance at life by the DALRRD, which leased him land on which to raise cattle.
In 2016, the culmination of this cooperation led to a major advance. Monaheng has signed a 30-year lease on an R14.8 million farm provided by the DALRRD’s Agricultural State Land Allocation program. His pitch was the most convincing because of his foresight and confidence in the black soil’s potential.
The nutrients in black soil are invaluable. Sunflowers are a good fit for this area, and I was right, because Monaheng now sells 150 tons of them to various businesses every year.
Mora Farming Project is home to more than just sunflowers; there’s also lucerne hay, poultry, cows, kudus, and springboks roaming the grounds. The farm is an integral part of the local economy, employing 12 full-time workers and 20 part-timers.
The DALRRD gave Monaheng R1.7 million more to help with his sunflower farm in 2019. But the financial backing wasn’t the only thing that helped him succeed. The value of high-quality food is emphasized by Monaheng.
“Once you see my sunflower fields and herd of cattle, you’ll be convinced. Quality is essential. “If you don’t produce quality, you won’t get the market,” he warns.
Young aspiring farmers can find inspiration in Monaheng’s tale today. His mentoring program equips young people with the perseverance and patience necessary for success in agriculture.
“Farming is not a challenging activity. It calls for persistence, tolerance, and help from groups like the DALRRD. Monaheng says, “I have faith that our young farmers can succeed if they work hard and make the most of the opportunities they are given.”
Frank Monaheng is a role model in a country where agriculture is crucial to the economy and a means of combating food insecurity. With diligence and foresight, agricultural fields can produce more than simply crops; they can sow the seeds of a wealthy future, as demonstrated by his success.
About the Author:
Mthembu is an agricultural innovations reporter. With a background in agricultural sciences and extensive travel throughout Africa, she brings the latest innovations in tech and sustainable practices to Africa Nova’s Zandile Mthembu is an agricultural innovations reporter. With a background in agricultural sciences and extensive travel throughout Africa, she brings the latest innovations in tech and sustainable practices to Africa Nova’s readers.
