Vegetable farmer's battle against the forces of nature

Eric Mauwane of Oneo Farms in Gauteng says that a crucial lesson he has learnt about sweet pepper production is the need to understand market demand and manage production practices accordingly. Siyanda Sishuba visited him to find out more about his operation.

- Siyanda Sishuba

Oneo Farms, which is situated near Tarlton in Gauteng, has experienced its fair share of setbacks. But thanks to the guidance of mentors and the kindness of neighbours, owner Eric Mauwane has been able to survive the tough times.

The farm produces mainly sweet peppers, but Mauwane also grows jalapeño, broccoli, cauliflower, red cabbage, green beans and baby marrows.

INSPIRATION

In 2012, Mauwane, who had worked for a market research company for more than 10 years, decided to leave the corporate world to pursue a career in farming. He was inspired to do so by his mentors at the time, Kabelo Bogatsu of Bogatsu Boerdery, and Annah Phosa of Dreamland Piggery and Abattoir.

Before giving up full-time employment, he spent six months researching pig farming. As part of this, he approached the South African Pork Producers’ Organisation, which sponsored him to attend a two-week course in piggery management at the Baynesfield Training Academy.

With his training behind him, his next step was to find suitable land. He started by renting it, and eventually, in November 2015, managed to purchase a property from Phosa. This comprised a 2ha farm with three pig houses and 1,5ha of arable land. To finance his farming operation, he sold his house and car, and also used savings from his previous employment.

Mauwane spent approximately R300 000 on renovating the farm. With expenses outstripping his budget, he decided to plant vegetables in order to raise further funds for the piggery. This would turn out to be a game-changer for him.

In 2016, he met vegetable farmer Johan Thyssen, owner of Pinocchio Farm in Tarlton. According to Mauwane, Thyssen and farm manager Raphias Sithole taught him a great deal about vegetable farming, and they still maintain a good working relationship.