Addressing guests on Friday July 31 , the President said the project with more than 25 wind turbines proves Mpumalanga has more to offer than coal alone.

“Mpumalanga is known as the place of the rising sun, but it has not been known for its wind. In fact, some doubted the value of building a wind farm here. Seriti has shown confidence in this province and its potential,” Ramaphosa said

The President noted that Seriti, a company with a strong history in South Africa’s coal industry, is now investing in the country’s renewable future while the country continues to rely on coal as part of a diversified energy mix.

He said the project underscores the value of partnership between government, Eskom, the private sector and communities, and is already delivering jobs and skills.

More than 1,000 jobs have been created to date, with about half going to people living within a 10 kilometre radius of the site. Over 18,500 people have registered on the Seriti Green Skills Hub, with more than 50 percent of them women.

READ | Seriti Power to create jobs and development in Albert Luthuli

“The true measure of the success of this just energy transition is the extent to which it creates opportunities for the South African people,” he said.

Ramaphosa also highlighted Seriti’s broader investment commitment, including R4.5 billion pledged at the 2023 South Africa Investment Conference and a further R10 billion announced earlier this year for renewable energy infrastructure.

On energy security, the President said load shedding is “behind us” and that work to end load reduction is bearing fruit in provinces including Mpumalanga.

He announced that a task team under the National Energy Crisis Committee has completed the first phase of work on establishing an independent Transmission System Operator, with a detailed implementation plan to follow.

“Electricity that is affordable, reliable and increasingly clean is the lifeblood of a growing economy,” Ramaphosa said. “For households, affordable electricity is a matter of dignity.”

He thanked Seriti Green, local contractors, workers and small businesses for their role, and said the Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Farm should stand as a symbol of South African ingenuity and partnership.

“For generations, Mpumalanga has powered South Africa and now it is paving the way to a new future,” he concluded.

The post President applauds Seriti Green on new project appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

The agreement will see the IDC become a significant shareholder in Vision operating companies across South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana, while extending post-commencement finance support to the end of September 2026. It also provides a basis for preserving an estimated 250 000 jobs across the sugar industry value chain and for concluding the steps required for Tongaat Hulett to exit business rescue.

The agreement follows a period of uncertainty during which a liquidation application was filed with the High Court of South Africa in Durban. The parties have chosen instead to work together to keep Tongaat Hulett operating and to protect the value it holds for its employees, growers, suppliers, lenders, and the many communities across the region that depend on it.

On the strength of this historic agreement, the Business Rescue Practitioners will take the steps necessary to withdraw the liquidation application today in front of the judge. Under the agreement, the IDC will extend its post-commencement finance (PCF) support to enable Tongaat Hulett to continue trading while the transaction is implemented.

The parties have also agreed to restructure the IDC’s PCF into equity at the appropriate level as part of the overall transaction framework, supporting a more sustainable capital structure on emergence from business rescue. Vision will provide the funding required to settle and address creditor claims, including the company’s obligations to the South African Sugar Association, in support of the substantial implementation of the approved business rescue plan.

READ | Guma signs letter of intent to develop Guinea-Liberia rail link

The parties will conclude new sale agreements for the transfer to Vision of Tongaat Hulett’s South African operations, together with its interests in its subsidiaries in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique.

For Vision, the agreement reflects a long-term commitment to the South African and regional sugar industry. Vision intends to invest in the recovery of Tongaat Hulett’s operations, to support the growers and suppliers who form the backbone of the value chain, and to safeguard the livelihoods that depend on a strong and stable business.

The parties have committed to work together in good faith and with urgency to bring the transaction to completion.
Their shared objective is to stabilise the business, support the broader sugar value chain, and position the operations for long-term sustainability and recovery.

Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, Chief Executive Officer of the IDC, said: “This agreement reflects the IDC’s commitment to supporting an outcome that safeguards productive capacity, protects livelihoods across the sugar value chain and creates a credible platform for long-term recovery.

“Our role is aligned to our developmental mandate: to preserve industrial capability, support jobs and enable sustainable economic participation in sectors that are important to South Africa and the region.

Robert Gumede, on behalf of Vision, said he is heartened in that the final negotiations and agreement to save the sugar industry, the 250 000 jobs and the Growers investments where Black Business is stepping up to save a 134-year old sugar group operating in the SADC Region.

ALSO READ | Seriti Green local enterprise development highlighted in SOPA

“This is a significant milestone for Vision, a Black-owned company that is the second biggest employer in Zimbabwe and Mozambique after the government employees. Vision is confident to turn the fortunes of the companies and hopes the SA government shall from now on protect the jobs and industry from the dumping of foreign produced sugar from Brazil and Thailand.”

“Lastly, Vision is looking forward to working with SASA, Growers, Labour Unions, our key clients and suppliers,” concluded Gumede.

The post Robert Gumede’s company part of an effort to save 250 000 jobs in the sugar industry appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

The partnership marks a strategic collaboration between two institutions committed to transformation, economic inclusion, and sustainable development. Through this MoU, SAWiC & BE and the Princess Stella Sigcau Foundation will work together to create opportunities for women contractors, emerging entrepreneurs, and young women entering the construction value chain.

Leslie Sigcau from the foundation said the partnership is a strategic step toward ensuring that infrastructure development becomes a vehicle for inclusive economic empowerment.

READ | “Women are still undermined”- SAWIC

“Women, particularly in rural and historically marginalised communities must be active participants in shaping and delivering development. Through this MoU, we are aligning our efforts to support skills development, enterprise creation, and sustainable community impact. Together, we are laying foundations not only for infrastructure, but for generational opportunity and shared prosperity.”

SAWic’s president, Thembeka Mnisi shared Sigcau’s sentiments stating that the MOU represents more than a formal agreement and that it is a commitment to accelerating the economic empowerment of women within the construction and built environment sectors.

“For too long, women-owned enterprises have faced structural barriers to market access, finance, and large-scale project participation. Through this partnership, we are creating a platform that strengthens skills development, enterprise growth, and meaningful inclusion in infrastructure delivery. Together, we are building not only structures, but sustainable pathways for women to lead and thrive in our industry,” said Mnisi.

The partnership seeks to:

• Promote women-owned construction enterprises
• Support skills development and mentorship programmes
• Facilitate access to markets and procurement opportunities
• Encourage youth and community participation in infrastructure development
• Advocate for inclusive policies within the built environment

About the South African Women in Construction (SAWiC & BE)

The South African Women in Construction & Built Environment (SAWiC & BE) is a national industry association established to advance the participation, empowerment, and recognition of women in the construction and built environment sectors. SAWiC & BE advocates for gender transformation across the construction value chain and works to remove systemic barriers that limit women’s access to opportunities, finance, markets, and leadership roles.
Through strategic partnerships, capacity-building programmes, mentorship initiatives, and policy advocacy, SAWiC & BE supports women-owned construction enterprises and promotes inclusive growth within South Africa’s infrastructure landscape. The organisation is committed to developing sustainable women-led businesses, strengthening technical and entrepreneurial skills, and influencing industry practices to ensure equitable participation in public and private sector projects.
SAWiC & BE continues to play a catalytic role in shaping a more diverse, competitive, and inclusive construction industry in South Africa.

About the Princess Stella Sigcau Foundation

The Princess Stella Sigcau Foundation is a South African non-profit organisation committed to advancing community development, social upliftment, and sustainable empowerment initiatives. Rooted in a legacy of leadership and service, the Foundation works to promote inclusive economic participation, education advancement, skills development, and socio-economic transformation — particularly in rural and under-resourced communities.
Through strategic partnerships, community-driven programmes, and advocacy initiatives, the Princess Stella Sigcau Foundation supports initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, youth development, women empowerment, and infrastructure-led growth. The organisation collaborates with public, private, and civil society stakeholders to ensure that development interventions create meaningful and lasting impact at grassroots level.
Guided by principles of dignity, opportunity, and shared prosperity, the Princess Stella Sigcau Foundation continues to champion initiatives that strengthen communities and contribute to sustainable development across South Africa.

The post SAWIC signs MoU with foundation to empower women appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

Targeting Grade 9 to 11 learners from Vodacom-supported Schools of Excellence across five provinces (KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga), the Eco-Warriors Competition is more than just a contest. It’s a call to action for young South Africans to design real, tech-enabled solutions to tackle environmental challenges in their schools and communities.

“The solutions to our biggest challenges are already coming from young minds,” says Takalani Netshitenzhe, Director of External and Regulatory Affairs for Vodacom South Africa and Chairperson of the Vodacom Foundation.

“Eco-Warriors is our investment in a generation of problem-solvers who think boldly, act locally, and innovate sustainably. Through this programme, we aim to ignite lifelong purpose and community impact,” adds Netshitenzhe.

READ | Vodacom continues to empower Mpumalanga communities through socioeconomic investment

At the heart of the campaign is Vodacom’s commitment to education, technology, and sustainability. These pillars underpin Vodacom’s purpose to protect the planet while empowering people. The competition supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education (SDG 4), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13).

Learners will form teams and compete on four pressing environmental themes: waste management, energy conservation, water conservation, and biodiversity protection. Entries can include anything from recycling campaigns to solar power innovations or multimedia storytelling that educates and inspires. Vodacom will support students through virtual workshops, learning toolkits, and mentorship sessions.

Submissions will be evaluated on innovation, creativity, use of technology, feasibility, impact, and quality of presentation. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony, with prizes including funding for the top three winning schools and the opportunity to implement their projects as well as exposure on Vodacom’s digital platforms.

ALSO READ | Vodacom invests R620 million to improve connectivity and promote digital inclusion in Mpumalanga

The Eco-Warriors initiative complements Vodacom’s growing ecosystem of purpose-led environmental partnerships. In collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, Vodacom has deployed an e-learning platform to reach underserved communities. Its partnership with Circular Energy champions safe e-waste disposal and recycling, while collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Vodacom is advancing marine conservation using digital tools to promote awareness and preserve marine ecosystems.

“We believe in the power of partnerships to scale impact and support purpose-led interventions such as the Eco-Warriors campaign that advance sustainability goals. By working together across sectors and investing in education initiatives that promote environmental awareness, we can build a more sustainable future,” concludes Netshitenzhe.

The post Vodacom ignites a green generation with Eco-Warriors Sustainability Competition appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

The project will ultimately deliver over 900 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy capacity across seven phases. The company has already installed 25 wind turbines near Bethal, Davel and Morgenzon.

This marks a major milestone in South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET), with Seriti Green leading delivery at scale from the heart of the country’s traditional coal region. With turbines in the ground and thousands of people gaining skills and employment, the Just Energy Transition is no longer theoretical but in action.

Seriti Green has successfully closed three 155MW phases (a total of 465MW) in just two years: the initial phase reached financial close in 2024 while the second closed in August 2025.

READ | Seriti Power to create jobs and development in Albert Luthuli

Peter Venn, CEO of Seriti Green, said: “Wind power in Mpumalanga was once thought impossible. Today, it is a reality. The Just Energy Transition must deliver – and we are doing our best to play our part.”

This third phase has reached financial close through securing long-term funding from Standard Bank, RMB and ABSA, unlocking full-scale construction. The first phase of Ummbila Emoyeni (155MW) is almost complete and will begin delivering electricity in early 2026.

The full A third of the electricity generated will power Seriti Resources’ mining operations, helping to decarbonise one of the country’s most energy-intensive industries. The remaining two-thirds will be traded via the NOA Group and Energy Exchange of Southern Africa (EXSA), making clean energy accessible to businesses and households nationwide.

Beyond infrastructure, Seriti Green is building a new energy economy rooted in inclusion and impact. On-site employment has reached 1 200 and is expected to grow to 2 000 as construction continues. The company has prioritised diverse hiring, local enterprise development and infrastructure improvements including the construction of Mpumalanga’s largest new main transmission substation in over 20 years and the upgrade of local roads to support both logistics and long-term access in host communities.

ALSO READ | Electricity Minister visits Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni renewable energy project

Premier, Mandla Ndlovu said this province, once defined by coal, is now leading in clean energy. “Seriti Green has turned vision into action.”

With more than R15 billion invested, over 2GW of renewable capacity in the Mpumalanga pipeline, and active partnerships with government, financiers and communities, Seriti Green is proving that South Africa’s energy future can be inclusive, ambitious and deliverable.

The post Seriti Green achieves financial close and breaks ground on third phase of flagship Ummbila Emoyeni wind project  appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

The launch, held on September 26 at The Venue in Melrose Boulevard, Johannesburg, was a resounding success, bringing together young innovators, business leaders, and industry experts to celebrate the programme’s national expansion and reaffirm its mission to empower young entrepreneurs.

Since its inception in 2021, the youth entrepreneurship acceleration programme run by Metropolitan (part of Momentum Metropolitan Group) has nurtured young entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary tools, skills, and networks to grow their businesses.

This season, the groundbreaking initiative is tackling youth unemployment through entrepreneurship in agriculture and logistics. Metropolitan CEO Peter Tshiguvho highlighted the initiative’s focus on these sectors, citing the critical need to address South Africa’s high unemployment rate, particularly among young people. “South Africa seats with so many problems, including a staggering unemployment rate of 33.2% and a youth unemployment rate of around 45.5%,” Tshiguvho explained. “We recognised the need for an initiative that equips young people to start their own businesses, generate income, and potentially employ others.”

Tshiguvho emphasised the importance of creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive, saying, “We know the government has a crucial role in creating an environment that fosters growth and expansion. In this context, we’re working together to make a meaningful impact on youth in the entrepreneurial space, contributing towards the country’s solution.”

Entrepreneurship expert Chimene Chetty added that young people require more than just ideas, they need tangible resources, supportive networks, and an environment that allows them to thrive. With its comprehensive support system and focus on high-growth sectors, MCS is poised to empower the next generation of business leaders, driving economic growth and making a lasting impact on the lives of many young entrepreneurs in the country.

The post Metropolitan Collective Shapers expands nationally appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

Dlamini, an organic farmer was one of the exhibitors at the official opening of the 8th Annual Mpumalanga Show last week. 

The event featured agriculture and forestry machinery, exhibitions and food stalls, different breeds of animals, various competitions, cultural dancing and live entertainment.

Speaking to Mpumalanga Mirror, Dlamini shared her journey on how she got into farming. 

“It was in 2012 when I left my job as an accountant and assisted a family member at their farm. I had no farming background but we eventually registered a cooperative with other young people”

She explained how they were assisted by the National Youth Development Agency before branching out on her own to establish her company, ND Holdings. She underwent training on permaculture methods of farming from 2018 until 2023.

Permaculture is a nature-inspired approach to designing productive and resilient human systems, from farms and gardens to homes and communities, by imitating the patterns and processes of natural ecosystems to meet needs sustainably.

“We are more like conservationists because we look after the soil, we look after our water, we preserve, we do not use water and we do not plough unnecessarily. When you visit my farm, it is evident that I keep it as natural as possible and I conserve a lot of these natural resources like water and I make sure my soil is always covered.”

Over the years, she says managed to earn money to grow her business. 

“I now have a stable market that I am supplying which are the local lodges and also hoping to set up a farm. We currently have four employees but the plan is to employ more people as we are expanding. Being a part of the Mpumalanga Show will also help to grow our client base and to attract potential organic farmers, “explains Dlamini. 

MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, Khethiwe Moeketsi said the department has been an active driver behind the scenes playing a role in planning,mobilisation, coordination and exhibition support to ensure the success of the show. 

“This year, we are proud to welcome a diverse range of exhibitions from various government departments, institutions, private entities and most importantly, our farmers both emerging and commercial.We see hope, progress, and a collective commitment to building a resilient agricultural economy for Mpumalanga,” said the MEC. 

The post From accountant to organic farmer appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

“Guided by our purpose to connect people for a better future, Vodacom Mpumalanga is supporting targeted socio-economic programmes, which uplift communities, create opportunities and drive meaningful change. These initiatives span education, youth empowerment, gender-based violence (GBV) response, agricultural development, and disaster relief, helping to build a more empowered and inclusive society in South Africa,” says Monde Ngcukana, Managing Executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga Region.

Transforming education through technology

Recognising the need to advance access to quality education in South Africa, Vodacom has invested more than R17 million in Mpumalanga’s education ecosystem.

This includes upgrading under-resourced schools and Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) and equipping them with cutting-edge technology to promote digital skills development and utilise online learning materials.

The region is home to three Vodacom-supported Schools of Excellence – one of which is a special needs school – and two ECDs, with plans to add another of each this financial year. These Schools of Excellence aim to enable academic excellence and quality education in previously disadvantaged communities.

Each school is supported by at least two ICT coordinators who assist educators and learners in integrating digital tools into the classroom and using them effectively.

To address the growing challenges of GBV, bullying, and mental health in schools in the country, Vodacom, in partnership with the Department of Education, has deployed psycho-social support professionals in Schools of Excellence since 2021. Four psycho-social support professionals have been placed in schools in Mpumalanga to assist both educators and learners with these issues and help create a safe, conducive environment for learning.

Empowering youth with digital skills development

In Mpumalanga, youth unemployment rates exceed 60% in some areas, with the expanded unemployment rate surpassing 43%. Vodacom’s Youth Academy offers NQF Level 4 IT Technical training to young people who cannot afford tertiary education, increasing their employment opportunities in the technology sector. Vodacom Mpumalanga has spent over R5 million to train 171 local youth at the Youth Academy, with 12 students from the province currently enrolled this year. These graduates are placed in Vodacom-supported Schools of Excellence and ECDs as ICT coordinators, where they gain valuable work experience and support digital skills development among the next generation.

Tackling the GBV issue

Vodacom is a strong advocate in the fight against GBV, using technology to enhance prevention, awareness, and response. Working with the National Prosecuting Authority, the company supports the KaBokweni Themba Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) in Mpumalanga, a one-stop, victim-centred facility offering counselling, legal aid, medical care, and essential support services, such as food, clothing, and shelter. The TCC serves a vast jurisdiction, characterised by a high rate of crime, especially GBV and femicide, in areas such as Masoyi, KaNyamazane and White River.
Additionally, to encourage economic independence for GBV survivors and prevent cycles of abuse, Vodacom has provided ICT training to 215 individuals in shelters across the province. This training equips them with digital skills that open pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and income-generating opportunities.

Supporting women in agriculture

Vodacom is empowering small-scale black female farmers in Mpumalanga with digital skills to help boost productivity and inclusion. Through a R2 million investment, 320 black female farmers in the province have been trained in ICT, enabling them to grow their businesses, access agricultural information, and connect with markets and buyers online while developing the local agricultural sector.

Assisting with disaster relief

Vodacom is actively involved in disaster relief efforts in Mpumalanga and has contributed over R3 million to provide support to communities affected by events like flooding in the region. Initiatives include distributing food hampers and care packs, as well as deploying communication solutions to aid in emergency response.

“We truly believe in going beyond connectivity to empower the communities we serve. By investing in people, building skills, and using technology as a force for good, we are committed to making a lasting positive impact not only in the region but in South Africa,” concludes Ngcukana.

The post Vodacom continues to empower Mpumalanga communities through socioeconomic investment appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

This investment is focused on expanding network infrastructure, driving access to connectivity, particularly in deep rural communities and township areas, and demonstrating Vodacom’s commitment to building a digital society that leaves no one behind.

In the 2024–2025 financial year, the region invested more than R400 million, and in 2025–2026, it is going to spend an additional R620 million, on extending broadband coverage throughout the province. This is an investment totalling over R1 billion over two years and it is part of Vodacom’s long-term vision, to have the widest and most reliable network accessible to all South Africans, irrespective of where they live.

In a province where terrain and remoteness often hinder connectivity, Vodacom Mpumalanga is accelerating its rollout of 4G and 5G sites, leveraging licensed spectrum such as L700, L1800, and L2100, to increase coverage and capacity in underserved areas. There are over 1 300 mobile infrastructure sites now serving the province, with 41% connected to high-speed fibre, providing faster and more stable internet to households, schools, businesses, and government facilities.

READ | Vodacom Business and Sasol partner to deliver MPN Solution

The region’s network investments also include mobile network boosters, modernised transmission technology, and backup power systems to mitigate challenges related to Eskom grid instability and vandalism and theft.

“Data traffic in Mpumalanga has increased by over 42% year-on-year, with 90% of this carried over 4G. As demand grows, Vodacom’s network investment is not only improving connectivity for its customers in the region but laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digital economy. By increasing coverage and capacity, we can ensure that all our customers can be empowered by technology, whether that is access to education and essential services, or helping the growth of enterprises, from SMEs to the public sector, through transformative digital solutions,” says Monde Ngcukana, Managing Executive for Vodacom Mpumalanga Region.

To complement this infrastructure build-out, Vodacom is tackling the affordability of devices and data, which are barriers to meaningful digital participation. Vodacom’s Easy2Own is driving smartphone penetration by offering customers an innovative device financing model to purchase a smartphone and, after a once-off deposit, pay it off in affordable instalments.

This July, in honour of Mandela Day, Vodacom launched its R67 smartphone campaign at selected stores across the country, including in Mpumalanga. The initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to help millions of South Africans transition from basic connectivity to 4G-enabled handsets. Furthermore, the company’s Just 4 You and location-based Just 4 Your Town offerings provide personalised data offers based on an individual’s usage habits and geographic context, reducing the cost to connect.

ALSO READ | Mapaleni Primary School learners’ dignity restored

In its commitment to accelerating South Africa’s digital transformation, Vodacom’s smart solutions are helping the Mpumalanga public sector operate more efficiently and deliver better services to citizens. The SmartGov Platform, for example, automates administrative workflows, C2 General providing real-time visibility and transparency.

With the SmartCitizen Engagement app, residents can report service issues, while government teams can respond more effectively through multi-channel contact centres and mobile-enabled field teams tools. Vodacom’s Smart Utilities solutions are improving accuracy in water and electricity metering and billing.

Public infrastructure is being enhanced through SmartPlaces and SmartBuildings, which enable better energy use, pollution and water monitoring, and security. Additionally, Smart Asset Management tools assist local government with managing resources more effectively through predictive maintenance and clean audits.

As part of its effort to build a thriving local economy, Vodacom is also empowering Mpumalanga’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Through Vodacom Business, SMEs gain access to affordable data bundles and digital tools such as cloud hosting, cybersecurity, point-of-sale systems, and Internet of Things (IoT) technology, allowing them to compete in a rapidly evolving digital economy. For SMEs requiring access to capital, VodaLend offers fast, flexible business loans of up to R5 million, disbursed in as little as 24 hours with no collateral or early settlement penalties.

Within its own operations, Vodacom Mpumalanga supports local businesses through partnerships with local contractors and security firms. Local companies in the region are key contributors to Vodacom Mpumalanga’s network rollout, while collaborations with security firms has created job opportunities for several community members.

“By removing barriers to access and partnering with government and business, we are giving the people of Mpumalanga the tools to learn, work, innovate, grow and connect to a better future,” concludes Ngcukana.

The post Vodacom invests R620 million to improve connectivity and promote digital inclusion in Mpumalanga appeared first on MP Mirror Online.

It’s thanks to her grandmother, who taught her the value of working with nature, not against it from a young age.
Speaking to Mpumalanga Mirror, Sithole credits her grandmother’s teachings as the foundation for her achievements. Today, she is the founder of “Lati Moya Farm,” a pioneering agricultural business that focuses on natural grazing patterns, rotational livestock systems, and minimal chemical use.

The thriving entrepreneur further highlights that her agri-business model is centered on working with nature to improve soil health, preserve biodiversity, and reduce the farm’s carbon footprint.

Her connection to the land has always been strong. After studying Agricultural Management and later pursuing short courses in Tourism and Environmental Sustainability, she set out to create a space where agriculture and tourism could converge to educate, inspire and uplift people in her community.

READ | WATCH: Kabokweni entrepreneur plays pivotal role in empowering young minds

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, she states, “My grandmother, who farmed with heart and instinct long before it was considered a business, taught me to respect the land and work with it, not against it.

“The wisdom she imparted led me to establish Lati Moya Farm, which was born out of a desire to redefine what farming can look like – something sustainable, educational, and deeply rooted in culture. I wanted to create a space that offered more than just agricultural products, but an experience and a story.”

Although her journey hasn’t been without its challenges, Sithole notes that as a young black woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, she has faced skepticism and struggled to access funding for her business. Yet, her determination and resilience have seen her through, and she’s now a beacon of hope for women in the agri-business.

“Gaining respect and credibility was difficult,” she recalls. “There were times I had to prove my knowledge more than my male counterparts. But I overcame this by staying consistent, building networks with other women in agri-business, and letting the quality of my work speak for itself.”

READ | Push’ Ispan Academy Program aims to enhance businesses

One of her proudest moments is mentoring a group of young women from her community who have gone on to start their own backyard farming projects. “Seeing them thrive and knowing that I’ve played a part in their journey is incredibly fulfilling,” she says.

With her passion, dedication and commitment to sustainability, the thriving entrepreneur is inspiring a new generation of farmers and entrepreneurs to follow in her footsteps.

“Agriculture isn’t just about farming, it’s about feeding futures, creating connections and building legacies. Start where you are, use what you have, and never underestimate the power of your story,” concludes Sithole.

The post Local female farmer making strides in agribusiness appeared first on MP Mirror Online.