I recently had the privilege of travelling to KwaZulu-Natal to meet with female agri-preneurs who are part of Momentum Group Foundation’s Women in Farming programme – a truly transformative experience.

Momentum Group Foundation’s Women in Farming programme, a collaboration with Agri Enterprises (the commercial arm of Agri SA), is – at its heart – an incubator and business accelerator that aims to enhance the skills of female farmers, empowering them to better feed their families and create jobs within their communities. It involves training, funding and market access opportunities.

Growing up in a family where many members are farmers, I’ve always felt an innate connection to the earth, the soil, the plants, and the nutrients that come from it. This journey, however, deepened my appreciation for the courage, resilience, resourcefulness and indominable entrepreneurial spirit of South Africa’s women farmers.

These women are the epitome of strength and determination. They navigate myriad daily challenges – greedy cows devouring their crops, goats munching on their spinach, tiny worms feasting on their potatoes, and the pressures from tribal leaders demanding a share of their earnings. They face unpredictable weather conditions, grapple with the decision between organic and non-organic farming, and confront issues of water scarcity or excess. Yet, they remain undeterred, showcasing incredible business acumen and nurturing resilience.

There were four key lessons that I learned from these Queens of the Crop about South Africa’s promising green economy.

1. Farming in SA requires creativity

Farming is a relentless endeavour fraught with potential pitfalls and rewards. It requires immense ingenuity to overcome the numerous obstacles. Whether creating shade from fruit plastic packaging or growing seedlings in eggshells, these women exhibit remarkable creativity. They lay kilometres of pipes to ensure water reaches their fields; a testament to their resourcefulness. South Africa, a country rich in farming potential, faces stark inequalities, with 55.5% of the population living below the national poverty line. It takes sheer determination and innovation to not only survive but to thrive in such an environment. Nonhlanhla Joye – affectionately known as ‘Ma Joye’  – is a pioneering farmer who has developed groundbreaking methods transforming the lives of many women in agriculture. These women’s innate ability to adapt and innovate is a critical factor in their success, demonstrating that with the right support and resources, women can lead the way in sustainable farming practices.

2. Farming is rooted in community

Standing in a field of gigantic cabbages, surrounded by women of all ages tending to the soil, was a powerful experience. Farming instils a sense of purpose and community. If more people had the knowledge and ability to farm, the world would be a more nourished and prosperous place. Farming supports entire communities, not just through food production, but also through employment and training. These women are not only farmers but educators, passing on their skills to individuals and organisations, thus creating a ripple effect of empowerment.

5. Mentorship is vital for future generations of farmers

Mentorship is at the heart of the Women in Farming programme. Inspirational figures like Ma Joye and food security activist Thabo Oliver have dedicated their lives to mentoring the next generation of women farmers. Their guidance and support are invaluable, fostering a community of learning and growth. Through their efforts, many women in KwaZulu-Natal and beyond are gaining the skills and confidence needed to succeed in agriculture.

4. When everything aligns, farming is hella rewarding

When the elements align, the rewards of farming are immense. Mastering the intricacies of the land, weather, pests, fertilizers, labour, and security can lead to a flourishing and profitable business. The joy of a bountiful harvest – the culmination of hard work and dedication – is unparalleled. Seeing the success of these women farmers was a testament to the potential of farming as a viable and rewarding livelihood.

Source: Momentum Group