As the commemoration of Women’s Month unfolds, it is crucial to reflect on the integral role women play in agriculture. Recognising their contributions and fostering support systems for their continued growth is essential. This sentiment was at the heart of the Soul to Soil Women’s Day brunch, hosted a week ago in Pretoria, South Africa, by Food for Mzansi in collaboration with the Agricultural Development Agency (Agda).
The event brought together activists, leaders, and farmers to honour the women cultivating the soil and the future of Mzansi’s agricultural sector.
It was graced by a keynote address from Leona Archary, the CEO of Agda, who set the tone with an inspiring message for women in agriculture. Archary emphasised the theme of “Soul to Soil,” which encapsulates the deep connection between women’s passions and dreams and the earth that sustains them.
“The relationship between soul and soil is at the heart of our agricultural journey as women. It’s about giving and receiving, nurturing, and being nurtured,” Archary stated, drawing from her extensive experience across various roles in government and agriculture.
Archery highlighted how agriculture could transform lives, empower communities, and drive economic growth. However, she acknowledged the unique challenges women face in this sector. “I firmly believe that within challenges lie opportunities for growth, innovation, and transformative change,” she said, reiterating Agda’s commitment to supporting women in seizing these opportunities.
On the part of Dr. Mankodi Moitse, CEO of Kagiso Trust, who was among the distinguished speakers, offered insights into the complexities faced in agricultural interventions.
She stressed the importance of viewing small farms not as liabilities but assets, even as land redistribution efforts continue.
“The agricultural sector is vast, and while we may only be able to address parts of it, we must ensure that small-scale farmers can sustain their businesses,” Moitse remarked, emphasising the need for strategic support for women in agriculture.
Similarly, Ntuthu Mbiko, a pioneering farmer, shared her inspiring journey from the world of information technology to agriculture, driven by a desire to make a difference.
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According to her, her initial foray into agriculture began with just four animals, a modest start that has since grown, motivated by her experiences at livestock auctions dominated by large commercial farmers.
“When discussing success in our country, they only mention the well-known. One day, they must mention our names as women in agriculture as well,” Mbiko asserted, highlighting the need for greater recognition of women’s contributions to the sector.
CEO of the Masimong Group, Logamal Ramiah, discussed the long-term nature of agricultural investments. She emphasised that agriculture, though complex and often misunderstood, plays a crucial role in economic growth and employment in South Africa.
Ramiah explained: “If you look at employment in South Africa, agriculture and mining are the two sectors that contribute the most. These sectors are long-term and have a significant impact on economic growth.”
Mientjie Mouton, founder and managing director of Carmién Tea, shared her company’s approach to creating value in the agricultural sector. Carmién Tea has successfully introduced South Africa’s unique Rooibos tea to global markets by focusing on international viability and opening up the value chain through partnerships.
“Everything we try to accomplish is always based on a commercial plan and being viable in the international sphere,” Mouton said, reflecting on her 25-year journey in the tea industry.
Barbra Muzata, an entrepreneur and global communicator, highlighted the importance of visibility and empowerment for women in larger businesses. She emphasised that we must go beyond rhetoric and actively practice women’s inclusion in the agricultural sector.
“We should utilise platforms like these to showcase our products in South Africa. My role is to be that person who whispers in that CEO’s ear to say, ‘Have you considered coming up with something for women?’” Muzata stated, calling for more intentional efforts to support women in business.
The Soul to Soil Women’s Day brunch was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and potential of women in agriculture.
As women continue to celebrate Women’s Month, it is imperative to noted that the honor these contributions create brings a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in agriculture, ensuring that they can thrive and lead the sector into a prosperous future.
