Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
In the heart of Bela-Bela, in the Waterberg district of Limpopo, a promising chapter in South Africa’s agricultural transformation is unfolding. Two local farmers are reaping the fruits of their labour under the Limpopo Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development’s (DALRRD) Land Development Support (LDS) programme. Coupled with technical assistance from Potatoes SA, their recent potato harvests mark a pivotal milestone in their potato farming journeys, and signal new hope for rural economic development.
Against all odds
Cecilia Mankabidi, a first-time potato farmer, is the face of determination and excellence in action. She planted 10 ha of potatoes in July last year. Defying the odds, she harvested in December 2024, achieving an impressive average yield of 40 t/ha.
This yield is particularly remarkable for someone entering the potato industry for the first time, and is a true testament to the effectiveness of the LDS programme and the technical support provided by Potatoes SA.
Her harvest day was more than just a celebration; it was a showcase of progress and partnership. Officials from the Limpopo DALRRD and project funders were present as Mankabidi harvested and washed a portion of her potatoes on the farm.
Due to her market contract with Easy Green, most of her potatoes were taken directly from the field without the need for extensive washing and sorting. She also planted an additional 2.5 ha of which the potatoes were washed, sorted, and prepared for fresh produce markets.
Mankabidi had to overcome several challenges before her successful yield. A hailstorm earlier in the season caused physical damage to parts of the crop, while limited cashflow affected her ability to consistently employ labourers for field maintenance, particularly removing invasive weeds that competed with the potato plants. She nevertheless persevered, showing unwavering commitment and a deep appreciation for the institutional support she received.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved,” Mankabidi says. “It wasn’t easy, but the backing I got from Limpopo DALRRD and Potatoes SA made a big difference. I’ve learned so much, and I’m looking forward to expanding my production.”
Expanding to potatoes
A few kilometres away another farmer has been sowing and harvesting hope of his own. Robert Ramollo is a seasoned vegetable grower who has been cultivating tomatoes, spinach, cabbage, and peppadew for over 15 years. However, after observing the impressive return on investment that potato farming can offer, he was eager to transition into potato production.
He joined the LDS programme with aspirations to commercialise and diversify his farming operations and further contribute to job creation in his local community. Ramollo planted 10 ha of potatoes under centre pivot irrigation, and secured a market contract with Easy Greens, which meant that not all his potatoes were washed from the fields.
While Ramollo brought extensive farming experience to the table, his first potato harvest was not without setbacks. He encountered water shortages due to the absence of a reliable borehole, and heat stress from high temperatures negatively impacted his crop. This affected plant development, resulting in a lower than anticipated yield. Ramollo has remained undeterred.
“This is just the beginning,” he says. “Although the yield wasn’t what I’d hoped for, I’ve gained valuable knowledge and experience. The infrastructure support and mentoring I received give me the confidence to keep going and do even better next season.”
Collaboration is key
Both cases are shining examples of what is possible when government and industry collaborate to support emerging farmers. The LDS programme, driven by the Limpopo DALRRD, has invested millions in infrastructure, production inputs, and operational support in the province.
These investments are not only aimed at increasing yields, but also at building a foundation for long-term commercial viability among black farmers.
Potatoes SA, with its technical expertise through the appointment of a mentor and farmer development programmes, plays a central role in equipping farmers with knowledge of potato production, pest and disease management, as well as post-harvest handling.
With the continued support of the Limpopo DALRRD and Potatoes SA, emerging farmers in the province are not only being given the tools to succeed, but are also being guided in the process. The journey ahead promises greater yields, improved livelihoods, and a generation of farmers ready to lead the industry into a prosperous future. – Brian Makhele, transformation specialist, Potatoes SA
For more information, send an email to brian@potatoes.co.za.