“Farmers gathered at VUT on 30 April 2026 for the AFGRI workshop, gaining insights into production, financial management, technology and partnerships.”
04 May 2026 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
Farmers, industry leaders, and academics gathered on 30 April 2026 at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) for a dynamic agricultural workshop themed “Production and Money Matters.” The event, hosted by AFGRI in partnership with VUT, provided a platform for knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration within the African farming sector.
The programme was directed by Mr Lebogang Mashala, editor of African Farming, who welcomed and acknowledged all attendees, setting an engaging tone for the day.
Professor Thokozani Xaba, from the Department of Natural Sciences at VUT, officially welcomed guests and reflected on the theme’s importance. “We talk a lot about technology and new ideas. During this gathering, we need to learn new technologies,” she said. “Let us take advantage of this opportunity to network and learn from one another.”
Dr Annie Moletsane, Director of Cooperative Education at VUT, greeted attendees in different indigenous languages, emphasising unity and inclusivity. She clarified the university’s role while underscoring the partnership’s significance. “We feel very honoured to host you today. VUT is only a co-host; the event belongs to AFGRI,” she said.
She added, “This is a great milestone for us as we celebrate our journey towards 60 years. We are gathered here to partner with AFGRI and to play a role in developing the agricultural sector while supporting our students.”
Sharing practical insight, Mr Nkosana “Farmboy” Mtambo, founder of Mtambo Boerdery, challenged common misconceptions about farming. “People must stop taking farming as a dumping site or a retirement plan,” he said. “Farming needs to start early because it involves a lot of logistics.”
Mr Someleze Jali from the Vereeniging Fresh Produce Market stressed the importance of collaboration: “Success requires coordinated action across all stakeholders.”
Mr Amos Njoro, Chief Executive Officer of Ya Rona Temo, shared a powerful personal journey rooted in resilience. “My experience is practical; it is not written in a book,” he said. “Sometimes we must not blame our parents. Where they could not afford, we must push ourselves.” Encouraging ambition, he added, “If you want to be a lion, work with lions. The sky is the limit.”
Hlobisile Yende, Chief Executive Officer of Yende and Partners (AgriDuo), highlighted the importance of relationships in agriculture. “You cannot do farming alone; it is a collective activity. I am here because of the relationships I built,” she said.
Mr Sylvester Lubambo from AFGRI Farmer Development and Grain Management emphasised the importance of record keeping. “Your records speak for you as a farmer. I must understand how well you know your business,” he explained.
Dr Sefako Morweshe, a lecturer at VUT, addressed the role of human resource management in farming. “Effective HR management helps farmers utilise resources, adapt to modern technologies, and improve efficiency,” he said. “Well trained and motivated workers improve farming operations.”
Closing the event, Dr Andronet Lombard, Director of Short Learning Programmes, encouraged farmers to remain purposeful and connected. “Let us remember that our network is our net worth,” she said, wishing attendees a safe journey home.
Attendees expressed how impactful the workshop had been. Mr Tshepang Maganwe said, “This event gave me goosebumps. It has changed my thinking. I am now in love with farming.” Ms Olerato Zulu added, “I am happy to have received this information.”
The workshop reinforced the importance of partnerships between academia and industry, highlighting how innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing can drive the future of agriculture in South Africa.