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Unlocking inclusive agricultural growth

Farmer's Weekly

July 3-10, 2026

Partnerships between financial institutions, commodity associations, agricultural trusts, and government could help unlock opportunities for emerging farmers, says Dr Sifiso Ntombela.

South African agriculture is recognised for its worth in rural employment, foreign exchange earnings, and poverty mitigation underpinned by sound sectoral policies, global competitiveness, and agile and entrepreneurial commercial farmers.

The sector also comprises efficient but resource-poor small-scale farmers who, according to the National Agricultural Marketing Council, contribute approximately 10% to the sector’s output.

The low participation of small-scale farmers and agribusinesses in commercial agricultural operations has prompted development finance institutions and non-government partners to intervene and support small-scale farmers. For example, the Kagiso Trust, commercial banks and trust foundations have priorities in the agriculture sector with the intention of promoting inclusive growth.

AGRICULTURAL INSTITUTIONS

One of the agricultural strengths is its well-developed institutions, which should function as a confidence booster for developmental institutions seeking to invest in agriculture.

Dit verhaal komt uit de July 3-10, 2026-editie van Farmer's Weekly.

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