George George Idowu
Agriculture in south Africa is experiencing a transformation led by women who are reshaping the industry with passion, innovation, and resilience. From the vast farms of citrusdal to urban rooftops in tshwane, women are demonstrating their leadership and dedication, embodying the ethos of “soul to soil” as they nurture both land and community.
Women in agriculture are breaking down barriers that have long defined the industry. Across the country, they are driving sustainable practices, spearheading innovation, and creating opportunities for their communities.
Their stories are not just about growing crops but about fostering ecosystems that support both people and the environment.
A practical example will be ntuthu mbiko who is at the forefront of increasing women’s participation in agribusiness, working tirelessly to ensure women have a seat at the table in industry structures. Her commitment to sustainability and women’s empowerment is reshaping the biodiversity economy, and her leadership is paving the way for others to follow.
Dr. Mankodi moitse, ceo of kagiso trust, brings over 20 years of experience to the agricultural sector. Her focus on rural development and education highlights the critical link between financial expertise, education, and agricultural progress.
Under her leadership, kagiso trust is shaping the future of rural communities and their role in south africa’s agriculture.
The story of mientjie mouton, founder of carmién tea, is one of vision and perseverance.
Starting in 1998, she transformed her passion for rooibos into a thriving international business, all while making a significant impact on the citrusdal farming community through the mouton foundation. Mientjie’s journey from her family’s farm to global success is a testament to the power of dedication.
Logamal ramiah, ceo of masimong group holdings, brings a wealth of financial and strategic knowledge to the sector. Her focus on empowerment has earned her recognition as one of saica’s top 35 under 35 and Africa’s most influential women in business. Her leadership is shaping not just agriculture but multiple sectors across south Africa.
Barbara muzata is a seasoned storyteller and branding strategist whose work in launching and building brands brings fresh perspectives to agriculture. Her ability to craft narratives that resonate across industries is helping to shine a spotlight on the contributions of women in agriculture, ensuring their stories are heard and their impact recognized.
Beyond these prominent figures, many other women are transforming agriculture in south Africa through their innovative approaches. Urban farming pioneers like kgomotso malebana and andile matukane are proving that agriculture knows no boundaries, while sustainable farmers like gugulethu mahlangu and nomonde ncongwane are leading the way in organic and aquaponic farming.
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Women like Ingrid de waal and megan angus are carving out successful niche markets, while resilient commercial farmers like selina hlabedi and siphesihle kwetana show the strength of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Youth leaders such as sinethemba masinga and thato moagi are blending traditional knowledge with modern innovation to shape the future of agriculture.
Community-driven initiatives, like those led by nonhlanhla joye and mmabatho morudi, highlight the power of agriculture to uplift communities. Whether through plastic bag farming systems or free bee pollination services, these women understand that true success extends beyond the farm gates.
Agripreneurs like ncumisa mkabile, who turned adversity into opportunity during the pandemic, and trailblazers like thato moagi, south Africa’s first nuffield agricultural scholarship recipient, are advancing agricultural knowledge and creating new opportunities for others.
Despite their many successes, women in agriculture face significant challenges. Limited access to land, inadequate financial support, and gender biases create barriers to their full participation in the industry.
However, within these challenges lie opportunities for growth and transformation.
At the agricultural development agency (agda), we see these challenges as a call to action. We are committed to supporting women in overcoming these barriers and seizing the opportunities that arise. By increasing access to land and resources, providing financial support and training, fostering mentorship, and driving innovation in agricultural technology, we aim to create new pathways for women to thrive in agriculture.
As women’s month was recently celebrated, we recognize the deep, soulful connection between women and the soil they nurture. This connection goes beyond the physical—it is spiritual, emotional, and at the heart of what it means to be a woman in agriculture.
To the women leading this transformation, i call upon you to embrace your role as change makers. Nurture the soil of opportunity, cultivate networks of support, and be bold in your aspirations. Together, we are shaping the future of agriculture, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and creating a more inclusive and sustainable sector.
As wangari maathai, the first African woman to receive the Noble peace prize, once said, “it’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference.”
In our case, it may be planting crops, mentoring a fellow farmer, or advocating for policy change. Whatever it is, let’s do it with all our heart and soul.
Together, we are authoring a new chapter in agriculture—one where women’s voices resonate across fields and boardrooms alike, transforming the industry from the soul to the soil.
