is the 'Agriculture backbone of society'

First-generation farmer Daniël Opperman, a potato producer from Naboomspruit in Limpopo, was the 2022 TLU SA Young Farmer of the Year. Magda du Toit asked him about his methods, challenges and hopes.

-  Magda du Toit

Is there something that you would wish to do differently?

I’d like to improve our productivity to obtain higher yields, but at the same time [manage costs]. With input costs rising, we need to look at ways to counter this so that we still reflect a profit at the end of the season.

Are there other opportunities that you’d like to pursue?

I enjoy being amongst the cattle and would like to expand my red Brahman stud.

What are your plans for the next five to 10 years?

I want to expand my farming operation in a sustainable manner. I’d like to keep my finger on the pulse of things, though, because I enjoy being actively involved as a farmer.

Could you name some of the difficulties you faced during the past couple of years?