Celebrating the rise of the Agricultural Sector in South Africa

The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) set the stage for the inaugural South African Agricultural Awards held on 25 June 2023.

This awards ceremony aims to promote the agricultural sector through celebrating and honouring the outstanding achievements of agri SMME’s and farmers who are contributing to the South African agriculture and rural development industry.

Gracing this prestigious awards ceremony was the Honourable MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Mr Super Zuma. Addressing the attendees at the awards ceremony, a proud MEC Zuma applauded the outstanding achievements of individuals and farmers making a contribution to the South African Agriculture and Rural Development industry. He also acknowledged the excellent work done by the dedicated members of the Non-Profit Organisation (NPO), whose founder created these awards. The Hon. MEC recently visited the farm of the founder and acknowledged the employment opportunities created for 75 people.

The eThekwini Metro Farmer of the Year was won by Vuma Mwelase and Bonga Jacobs from Masibumbane Pty Ltd. Winning farmers from KwaZulu-Natal included Delisile Ndlovu who was honoured for having the Best Sustainable Backyard Garden while Young Farmer of the Year was awarded to Nontokozo Mdletshe.

MEC Zuma applauded all winners and welcomed the possibilities of creating partnerships with various commodities to inspire and motivate future farmers. ‘It is through fresh initiatives like this that we are able to create a competitive agriculture sector to ensure transparency and good service delivery while addressing the issues of poverty and food security in South Africa,’ said MEC Zuma.