Our-Stories

Mr ME Lekgau

Location: Limpopo

Mr ME Lekgau is a development farmer, farming with livestock on Magatle communal land (894.5 ha) in the Ga-Mphahlele village. There is sufficient water and grazing for the livestock, with a carrying capacity of 108 animals. Mr Lekgau has one bull and 35 cows currently and is looking to expand his herd. He approached Land Bank for support and was granted a loan to help him expand his farm to its full carrying capacity.

Land Bank is proud to be able to help Mr Lekgau kick-start his farming dream!

Akwandze Agricultural Financial Service

Location: Mpumalanga

Akwandze Agricultural Financial Service was established in 2006 after land was transferred from the previous owners to a newly established Community Property Associations (CPA). The project was set up to provide financial services to these property associations, strategic partners and small-scale farmers in the sugarcane production industry.

Akwandze is backed by a unique partnership between TSB sugar and the Liguguletfu Co-operative. The organisational shareholding structure consists of a 50 - 50 partnership between TSB Sugar RSA and Liguguletfu Co-operative Limited, the latter representing the sugar cane growers in the region (currently 889 members). Both shareholders have invested a total of R25 million in Akwandze and have extensive knowledge and experience in sugar cane milling and production.

Since its establishment, Akwandze has created five Projects that cover 12199Ha of land, providing 3864 job opportunities that benefit close to 35,000 beneficiaries.

Land Bank is one of the financiers of Akwandze, who then on-lend directly to the farmers in the CPA, offering loans to facilitate:

• Crop establishment and re-establishment.
• Crop management and maintenance.
• Purchasing and installation of above ground irrigation equipment and fixed irrigation infrastructure.
• The supply of electricity bridging loans for contractors; and
• Right-to-occupy rental bridging loans.

Sugarcane production is important to the local economy and job creation. Without appropriate financial services from the likes of Land Bank and other financiers, the production could be compromised.

This approach sees Akwandze providing farmers with the support required for cane production and irrigation infrastructure, whilst contractors can apply for short-term working capital requirements. In addition, to ensure that small-scale growers and emerging cane farmers benefit, Akwandze requires that qualifying candidates must represent wholly black-owned enterprises. Candidates must be registered with the South African Sugar Association (SASA), and have a cane delivery agreement with TSB.

Neels Minnie and Sons Farm CC

Location: KwaZulu-Natal

With the acquisition of this farm, Mr CJ Minnie wanted to contribute to the transformation of the area. He has partnered with Mr WG Mgiba, a work colleague, to achieve this. Mr Minnie has extensive farming experience, as his family owned a livestock farm. Mr Mgiba has over 20 years of family farming experience through subsistence farming. The new farm comprises pecan, Macadamia and orange orchards, a registered Macadamia nursery and a nut processing factory. Currently employing 52 workers with further employment opportunities planned as the planting area is expanded, this new venture holds significant transformation and development potential. A workers’ trust is also being established in which employees will own a portion of the shares once the CC is converted into a company. Lank Bank Funding has been instrumental in helping this venture realise his true potential.

Mouton Citrus

Location: Western Cape

Mouton Citrus (Pty) Ltd is a family run fully integrated producer, packer, marketer and exporter of quality citrus and rooibos tea with global alliances and partnerships. The farming operations have grown over generations from being only a producer to being a supply chain integrated business model, after the deregulation of the South African Fruit Industry and the opening of the US market for SA citrus in 1997. Currently the farming operations consists of 14 farms in the Citrusdal valley including a Pack house.

During February 2017, the Land Bank advanced a bridging facility to Mouton Investments in terms of a convertible note issued by Mouton Citrus to the Land Bank. The purpose of the note was to finance the buy-back of shares held by Orchards Investments BV, a foreign 45% shareholder in Mouton Citrus (Pty) Ltd. Mouton Citrus (Pty) Ltd is the wholly owned operating entity of Mouton Investments (Pty) Ltd.

In addition to financing the share buy-back, the transaction will enable the Land Bank, together with its BEE partner (Masimong Holdings (Pty) Ltd), to convert the convertible note into a 35% equity stake in Mouton Investments within six months of the initial advance. Masimong Holdings is a 75% Investment Holding Company based in Johannesburg, with various interests in Mining, Energy and financial services amongst others.

The strategic intent behind the transaction is to directly address the land ownership and transformation challenges facing the South African agricultural sector by ramping up the participation of previously disadvantaged groups in the sector, including emerging black farmers, black industrialists, women and youth.

The transaction has resulted in an increase in black ownership of Mouton Citrus from 10% to 47%. Similarly, Employee Trust ownership will increase to 12% with 350 beneficiaries. The transaction also serves to preserve 1800 jobs while creating 600 new jobs, further boosting the economy of the Province.

Boererus Farm: Kauthar Noor

Location: Western Cape

Kauthar Noor, is a 29-year-old woman farmer and the proud owner of Boererus Farm, situated in Montagu, Western Cape. Kauthar is dedicated to peach farming and is highly focused on driving the farm into a high-income, sustainable agricultural operation.

In August 2024, Kauthar received funding from Land Bank’s Blended Finance Scheme(BFS). The BFS established in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development combines both grant and loan to empower developing farmers and promote majority black-owned enterprises.

The funding has been instrumental in assisting Kauthar to achieve her primary goal of maximising the farm's productivity and profitability. She aims to improve the yield and quality of peaches, expand the farm's market presence, and adopt sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term success.

Despite these successes, challenges remain. Securing consistent financial backing from institutions to fully execute her business plan continues to be a hurdle. While agricultural skills can be developed or sourced externally, the main challenge lies in maintaining institutional support. To overcome these challenges, Kauthar entered into a skills transfer agreement with the farm’s previous owner, Hendrik Rahl., This strategic move has ensured a smooth transition, providing Kauthar with invaluable skills and Hendrik’s seasoned management experience.

Kauthar Noor’s journey is one of determination and strategic growth. Through a combination of institutional support, a focus on sustainability, and a partnership-driven approach, Kauthar is not only building a thriving farm but also setting the stage for a new generation of successful agricultural ventures. At Land Bank, we are proud to empower farmers like Kauthar Noor, driving agricultural transformation and sustainability in South Africa.

OSK Devco (Pty) Ltd – Organic Raisin Producers

Location: Northern Cape

Onseepkans Development Company (Pty) Ltd (OSK Devco) is a leading producer of organic raisins, located 60 kilometers north of Pofadder in the Northern Cape.

The farm leases 19 properties and with 72 hectares under irrigation and an additional 76 hectares of secured water rights, OSK Devco is equipped to meet the growing global demand for high-quality organic products.

Bright Ndhlovu is a director in the farm’s management operations and has been involved since 2022. The company is uniquely structured, with 100% of its shares held by the “Die Begustigdes Trust,” representing 114 beneficiaries. This community-driven ownership model supports local development and fosters economic growth, creating a sustainable foundation for the future.

In February 2024, OSK Devco received essential production funding through Land Bank's Blended Finance Scheme (BFS). The Blended Finance Scheme established in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is a part grant and part loan funding programme designed to support developing farmers and promote majority black-owned enterprises.

Land Bank’s funding has provided essential support for the challenges faced by OSK Devco which included the need to manage expenses carefully to ensure that all orchards, even those not yet in full production, receive the necessary inputs to secure future yields. The Blended Finance Scheme grant has helped to address these funding gaps, allowing the farm to plan for long-term productivity and profitability.

Additionally, OSK Devco promotes inclusive growth through a 10% profit-sharing scheme for all farm workers, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and workforce development.

OSK Devco (Pty) Ltd is an exemplary role model for sustainable and beneficiary-owned agriculture. With its experienced leadership, structured support and ongoing funding from Land Bank, the company is well-prepared to continue its growth trajectory and make a positive impact in the organic farming sector.

At Land Bank, we are proud to empower farmers like OSK Devco, driving agricultural transformation and sustainability in South Africa.

Andile Bernard Ndzunga – Willowfield Trade (PTY)Ltd

Location: Eastern Cape

Andile Bernard Ndzunga, a 37-year-old farmer from Matatiele, Eastern Cape is the driving force behind Willowfield Trade (PTY)Ltd.

With a focus on maize farming, Andile has steadily expanded his operations since starting as a sole proprietor in 2014, overcoming both market and environmental challenges along the way.

Andile has been a long-standing client of Land Bank. In 2023, Andile transitioned his farming operations to Willowfield Trade (PTY) Ltd and received vital funding through the Land Bank Blended Finance Scheme (BFS). This funding, a partnership between Land Bank and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, has been instrumental in growing his business. With this support, Andile was able to expand his planting capacity from 100 hectares to 400 hectares.

His aspirations to become a fully commercialised farmer and to acquire his own farmland indicates his forward-thinking approach to build a sustainable agricultural business.

Climate change poses continuous challenges to Andile’s operations, with risks such as heatwaves, droughts, veld fires, and floods. To mitigate these threats, Andile has taken proactive steps, including insuring his crops against hail damage, which proved to be important protection during the 2023 season.

Andile’s goal is to become a fully commercialized farmer and ultimately acquire his own farmland. With the continued backing of Land Bank and his unwavering resilience, Andile is well on his way to achieving his vision of a sustainable agricultural business.

At Land Bank, we are proud to empower farmers like Andile, driving agricultural transformation and sustainability in South Africa.

Crisp Crisp - Crisp Works (PTY)Ltd

Location: Northern Cape

Crisp Crisp, is a 34-year-old farmer and the sole director of Crisp Works (PTY) LTD, He is dedicated to producing high-quality pecan nuts on his farm in the Northern Cape, near Hartswater in the Vaalharts area. Understanding that pecan farming requires long-term commitment, Crisp recognised the need for a solid foundation to succeed.

Initially farming on leased land with limited access to funding, Crisp turned to Land Bank for support. Through the Blended Finance Scheme (BFS), a partnership between Land Bank and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, he secured the financing needed to take his farm to the next level. This combination of grant and loan funding allowed Crisp to achieve his dream of farm ownership and establish 24.5 hectares of thriving pecan nut orchards. The funding support from Land Bank played a pivotal role in Crisp’s growth allowing him to achieve his goal of owning his own farm, after he previously farmed on leased properties. Through his partnership with Land Bank, he has successfully planted 24.5 hectares with pecan nuts.

With the guidance of his experienced mentor and farm manager, Crisp has implemented sustainable farming practices, including improved fertilizer and pesticide management, which have significantly boosted his yields. These efforts are helping him build a profitable and sustainable farming operation.

Crisp Crisp’s success story highlights the power of accessible financing and mentorship in transforming the future of agriculture. With continued support from Land Bank, Crisp is set to make his mark in South Africa's growing pecan nut industry.

Tshilidzi Matshidzula - Matshidzula Family Trust

Location: Eastern Cape

Tshilidzi Matshidzula is a 35-year-old multi award-winning dairy farmer based in Stutterheim, Eastern Cape. Tshilidzi and his wife Adivhaho Matshidzula operate across two farms namely a newly acquired farm in Stutterheim and a dairy farm in Alexandria, where they have a 20% shareholding ownership. Tshilidzi is a skilled and innovative farmer who has steadily built his reputation as one of South Africa’s leading dairy farmers.

In 2023, with support from Land Bank’s Blended Finance Scheme (BFS), Tshilidzi took a significant step towards his long-term vision of farm ownership. The BFS, a partnership between Land Bank and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, provided crucial funding to help him purchase the Stutterheim farm.

Starting with heifer rearing and winter silage production, Tshilidzi is now expanding his operations to include dairy farming and irrigation systems. He has secured water rights for irrigation and additional funding to install the necessary infrastructure. While facing the challenges of phased development, Tshilidzi’s experience managing large herds and his multiple industry awards position him for success.

Beyond farming, Tshilidzi is actively involved in key agricultural bodies, continuously learning from industry leaders. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and the right support.

Tshilidzi’s success story highlights Land Bank’s commitment to empowering farmers and driving agricultural transformation in South Africa.

Vumile Mzinzi - Matuana Agencies (PTY) Ltd

Location: Eastern Cape

Vumile Mzinzi, a 37-year-old farmer from the Eastern Cape, is the driving force behind Matuana Agencies (PTY) LTD, a family-run farming business in the Maclear district, located 60 kilometers north of Mthatha.

As a Vumile, a 55% shareholder, Vumile works alongside his father, Thumekile Mzinzi, a seasoned farmer with over 20 years of experience, to manage a diversified operation that includes maize, potatoes, dry beans, and livestock. Together, they lead a team of 9 permanent workers and employ up to 60 seasonal workers during peak across both privately owned and leased properties.

Vumile’s journey into farming is unique. With a BSc degree and experience as a registered pharmacist, he joined the family business full-time in 2020, after being involved part-time since 2013. His commitment was recognized in 2021 when he was named Toyota Emerging Farmer of the Year.

In 2023, Matuana Agencies secured financing from Land Bank’s Blended Finance Scheme (BFS), established in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to support developing farmers and promotes majority black-owned enterprises. The funding enabled the Mzinzi family to acquire advanced machinery, improving planting efficiency, optimizing production and harvesting, and expanding their land lease for greater capacity.

While the Mzinzis face challenges, including weather-related issues and tight planting windows, Vumile’s determination and strategic approach ensure the continued growth and success of their farm. His vision is to compete alongside large commercial farms in the area and scale his family’s business to new heights. Vumile works hard to ensure that planting proceeds as planned, and that re-advance production funding is secured in time to avoid cash flow disruptions.

Vumile Mzinzi is an inspiration to other young farmers in South Africa. His ability to balance modern farming techniques with traditional values, along with his determination to scale his family’s farming business, makes him a role model in the agricultural community. With the ongoing support of Land Bank, Vumile is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the agricultural industry.

Agri-Teen Symposium

Boosting Youth Participation in Agriculture

Youth involvement in the agricultural sector is set to get a boost with the launch of the inaugural Agri-Teen Symposium initiative. The Symposium brings together 300 grade 10 - 12 learners from schools in the greater Soweto area, exposing them to various learning and vocational opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

The National Development Plan (NDP) provides a clear and overarching policy approach on agriculture that is being implemented across government and within the agricultural sector. As one of the primary economic activities, agriculture has the potential to create close to 1-million jobs by 2030. However, the implementation of activities that will encourage and support more youth entering the agricultural sector hinges on the ability of sector players to fully understand their challenges and how best to respond to them.

The brainchild of journalist and media personality Ayanda Allie Paine working in conjunction with Land Bank, the Agri-Teen Symposium aims to establish a practical network of mentors for South African youth to tap into enhanced programmes that not only encourage greater youth participation in the sector, but also facilitate this in a sustainable manner.

“Through the Agri-Teen Symposium, we will be working with sector specialists to unlock the untapped potential within the sector for our youth, finding solutions to some of the current barriers to participation in the process.” says Allie Paine.

During 2017, Land Bank concluded a survey to understand the perceptions, attitudes and challenges faced by young people participating in the agricultural sector. The main findings raised a number of areas to be addressed:

• The data suggests that young people’s perception of, and attitude towards the agricultural sector, is largely influenced by a lack of information and exposure to the industry. It is concerning that several of the respondents noted that they did not know what agriculture was or what it entailed;
• Others only associated agriculture with subsistence farming, manual labour and being poor; and
• Respondents also had little knowledge of opportunities in the sector, and the variety of careers that feed into agriculture. Thus, a majority of the respondents preferred a career in one of the tertiary sectors, over a career in agriculture.

This is in addition to existing challenges for new entrants including a lack of access to arable land, a lack of funding and poor access to industry information and statistics.

For Land Bank CEO, TP Nchocho, these insights play a crucial role in guiding the Bank fulfil its transformational mandate by customising programmes focussed on supporting young people in agriculture:

“The Agri-Teen Symposium represents an important part of Land Bank’s broader response to the youth challenge facing the agricultural sector. We will be working closely with stakeholders across the sector to impart the knowledge, skills and time to ensure that South African youth are exposed to the best opportunities to tap into the agricultural value chain.”

Learners at the launch event this year will benefit from a wide range of inputs, including first-hand experience from emerging black farmers who are creating their own agribusinesses as well as established players on both the production and operational side and educational institutions offering agri-focussed courses.

Following its launch in Gauteng, there are plans to host the event annually, to extend the reach of the initiative to benefit learners nationally as well as to establish connectivity to existing support programmes for youth in the agricultural sector.

Organisations or individuals who would like to support or get involved with the Agri-Teen Symposium programme can contact the organisers, Shekinah Media, on 074 823 7979.

AGRI TEEN SYMPOSIUM 2019 NORTH WEST

Boosting Youth Participation in Agriculture

The symposium was an intergenerational gathering of stakeholders in the agricultural sector, aimed at transferring passion, skills and knowledge from industry experts to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.Land Bank’s objective was to educate the 200 learners between Grade 10 and 11 in attendance on the importance of the agricultural sphere, and inform them of the various career opportunities available. Under the theme #PlantTheRightSeed, agricultural experts and professionals encouraged learners to actively and meaningfully participate in the industry.

“The agricultural sphere offers you the opportunity to secure your socio-economic wellbeing and to escape poverty and its social ills,” said Mr Lion Phasha, Senior Specialist in Stakeholder Relations and CSI from Land Bank. He said that they specifically chose to host the symposium at North West University because it is in the center of black communities which is in favor of developing young black farmers in our country. “It is Land Banks business to support farmers to produce for their country, to encourage and support young people who are interested in Agriculture, also to ensure they become our success stories,” said Mr Phasha.

Dr Brylyne Chitsunge, the Pan African ambassador for food security in Africa and CEO of Elpasso Farms, was the keynote speaker. Dr Chitsunge was happy to see young people being part of conversations where they can access information on ownership in food security. She expressed her enthusiasm by commending Land Bank on its collaborations to plant the right seed in the young lives of the Agri Teens.

The 21st century farmer encouraged learners to get educated and start farming in a smart way to feed the world. She addressed issues relating to food security on the African continent. “The world needs to be fed, how will we do it if we don’t take ownership of the land and its produce” said Dr Chitsunge. Professionals from partnering originations namely Land Bank, National Youth Development Fund, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and Wispa Holdings, were part of the panel discussion. They addressed topics such as the fourth industrial revolution, the importance of Agriculture and how learners can access bursaries, funding and grant opportunities in this sector.

Mr Jeremiah Lukas from the NYDA, North West Branch said that they have included another threshold to fund businesses in Agriculture “the NYDA has set aside R250 000 as a grant for businesses in Agriculture, doors are open for young people in Agriculture”. As the learners continued to listen and join the conversations one of the learners from Tshidi Barolong High School asked “What is the plan with industrial farmers since the fourth industrial revolution is taking over” One of the panelists replied in saying bio technology will take place; on that note young agriculturists need to come up with ideas of how to incorporate industrial farmers in the era of the fourth industrial revolution. Other activities of the day included a soil, veterinary and farm demonstration by NWU experts and a mini expo by Agri Teen partnering organizations including the NYDA, Agri Seta, Land Bank, DAFF and NWU.

Employee Volunteerism

Land Bank in partnership with Food & Trees for Africa participated at various Mandela Day initiatives where they handed over food parcels and assisted in the development of food gardens to help communities be self-sustaining. This is in line with our Corporate Social Investment (CSI) which aims to assist and contribute to food security and poverty eradication.

At Land Bank, we believe that a hand up is always better than a hand out, and we endeavour to create sustainable value for the communities our employees chose to empower.

Employee Volunteerism

Land Bank in partnership with Food & Trees for Africa participated at various Mandela Day initiatives where they handed over food parcels and assisted in the development of food gardens to help communities be self-sustaining. This is in line with our Corporate Social Investment (CSI) which aims to assist and contribute to food security and poverty eradication.

At Land Bank, we believe that a hand up is always better than a hand out, and we endeavour to create sustainable value for the communities our employees chose to empower.

Anelly Khulelaphi Mokwena

Location: Gauteng

Anelly Khulelaphi Mokwena is a grains and livestock farmer in Bronkhorstspruit. Anelly is an innovative and determined farmer who has previously utilised her own funds to ensure planting of 150 hectares of crops on the leased property she farms on.

In 2022, Land Bank funded Ms. Mokwena through the Blended Finance Scheme. The scheme which is a 50% grant, 50% loan, established in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) seeks facilitate meaningful participation of black producers and promoting majority black owned enterprises owning and controlling the agricultural value chains.

Through the funding from Land Bank Anelly was able to purchase;

• production inputs and increase her production and plant 450 hectares,
• mechanisation to improve her efficiency and productivity, and
• vehicles to give her greater mobility and transportation options.

In addition to the financial support, Land Bank’s Post Investment Management Services team provided assistance that has helped her from crop inspection to sourcing leased harvesters.

Annelly’s hardwork has also been recognised by the the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development and she was awarded the young and upcoming female farmer of the year award for being an inspiration to others,

With the help of Land Bank funding, she is on her way to achieving her goal of becoming a commercialized farmer. She intends to purchase her own farm within five years and to expand her current hectares planted from 400 to 1200 hectares. She has shown that it is possible to succeed in farming, even if you start out with limited resources.

Thabo Dithakgwe – Dithabo Projects

Location: North West

Thabo Dikgwathe is an extensive livestock farmer in the small town of Terra Firma in the North West Province.

Thabo received finance from Land Bank through a Medium Term loan and an Instalment Sale Finance which he used to purchase livestock and a light delivery vehicle. With this finance he was able to increase his livestock number to 160 cattle in breeding stock, and purchase a vehicle to ensure that he is able to effectively conduct his business. This feat has allowed him to increase both his turnover and his profits.

The farm has become self-sustainable, creating an ability to pay workers and the owner. His expansion plans to purchase a second farm and delve into feedlotting and agro processing sectors

Moses Khoza - Imvelo Kraal (Pty) Ltd

Location: Mpumalanga

Moses Presley Khoza, is an entrepreneur and sole director of Imvelo Kraal (Pty) Ltd, who has carved a remarkable path in the agricultural industry, overcoming challenges and achieving significant growth with the support of Land Bank.

Moses' journey in farming began with a dream of owning his own land. He applied for Land Bank's Mortgage Finance and used that to acquire a property marking a pivotal moment in his agricultural aspirations. This breakthrough allowed him to expand his sugarcane farming operations to 583 hectares and establish a 2,979-hectare beef cattle farm.

In 2022, Moses took his agricultural enterprise to even greater heights with Land Bank's Production Loan. Used to finance agricultural inputs, as well as working capital, this funding meant that Moses could implement more modern farming practices, optimise his resources, and achieve higher yields

Moses' vision for Imvelo Kraal extends beyond personal success. He envisions a sustainable and diversified agricultural enterprise that contributes to rural development and combats poverty through employment opportunities, food security, and economic growth. His dedication to social responsibility and community upliftment is a testament to his values and leadership.

Most recently, Moses has applied for additional funding from Land Bank to purchase another sugarcane farm, cover production input costs, and acquire essential farm implements, address the machinery constraints and streamline his operations, paving the way for even greater success. This expansion will further solidify his position as a prominent player in the agricultural sector.

Land Bank's support has been instrumental in Moses' journey, enabling him to navigate challenges and achieve remarkable growth. His unwavering determination and strategic approach to farming makes him an inspiration to aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs.

Moses Khoza's story exemplifies the transformative power of financial support and the unwavering spirit of an entrepreneur committed to making a positive impact on the agricultural landscape and the lives of those around him

Raletjena Phophi Simon

Location: Limpopo

Raletjena Phophi Simon is a farmer in Blouberg Municipal Area of Limpopo Province, and he farms both crops and livestock.

Simon has been a client of Land Bank for over 20 years. He has received a variety of Land Bank’s finance products which he has used to improve his farming operations. When he started his potato farm, he first got a production loan which he used to purchase a 2-hectare drip irrigation system. He then got asset finance for his farm machinery needs. This included six tractors and a tractor loader backhoe (TLB).

Mr Raletjana’s goal is to become a leading potato producer in South Africa and to benefit from the entire potato value chain, from plant breeding to processing. He has made significant progress towards this goal and is well on his way to achieving it.

In addition to financial support, Land Bank has also provided Simon with pre- and post-support services where Bank has helped him to develop a business plan and to assist him in accessing government grants. He was able to successfully apply for and receive funding from the Blended Finance Scheme and this allowed him to purchase additional equipment without the need for large collateral

Simon is a successful farmer who is an inspiration to others. He has overcome a number of challenges, including access to land and affordable development finance.

Here are some of Simon's biggest accomplishments:

• He has established himself as a potato anchor farmer for Simba
• He has been selected by the industry to mentor other Black farmers to produce potatoes for Simba and other markets
• He has been selected by Potatoes South Africa as Best Farmer of the Year for their Enterprise Development Programme.

Simon is a role model for other farmers who are striving to achieve their commercialization goals. And with Land Bank at his side, he is making great strides towards his goal of becoming a leader in South Africa’s potato industry.

Sefale Petrus Letsitsa

Location: Free-State

Sefale Petrus Letsitsa, also known as Happy Letsitsa, is a farmer in the Welkom district of South Africa. He farms on two adjacent properties, on lease and his main income stream is crops.

Mr. Letsitsa's goal is to purchase his own land and become a fully commercialized farmer. The funding he received from Land Bank through the Blended Finance Scheme has been a game-changer for him.

In the first year, he planted maize and sunflower and purchased a new tractor. With his second funding, he again planted maize and sunflower, and purchased a 6-row planter and high-speed disc. This has helped improve his efficiency, he also increased his production capacity by 50%, delivering 1,500 tons of grain to Grain SA in 2023.

Mr. Letsitsa is a successful farmer because of his hard work and dedication, as well as the support of Land Bank. He is a role model for other farmers who are striving to achieve their commercialization goals. He has shown that it is possible to achieve success in farming, even if you start out with limited resources.