From the PGP desk

May 2025

THE PHAHAMA GRAIN PHAKAMA (PGP) TEAM AIMS TO SUPPORT AND EQUIP DEVELOPING FARMERS OF ALL LEVELS THROUGH THE FARMER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME (FDP). THESE THREE YOUNG MEN ARE NOW ALSO HELPING FARMERS TO EXPAND THEIR KNOWLEDGE.

Mlibo Qotoyi (27), who achieved a diploma in agriculture and an honours degree in agricultural economics, is an economist intern at Grain SA. As part of the PGP team, he assists with training sessions and farm assessments. To Mlibo, being part of the FDP offers him the opportunity to empower developing farmers with practical knowledge, data-driven decision-making tools and support that strengthen their operations. ‘It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute to the growth of a more inclusive and resilient agricultural sector,’ says Mlibo.

With two national diplomas behind his name – one in plant production and one in animal production – Neo Koqo (38) has 15 years of experience in the agricultural sector, mainly in the mechanisation field. His role is to collect data through doing farm evaluations. Neo is passionate about training and mentoring. The farm evaluations give him insight into the needs of farmers in terms of fully integrating mechanisation and better understanding the environment, which in turn helps the farmers to be more efficient.

Molefe Seodi (34) obtained a BCom Economics degree and his role in the team is from a financial literacy reference. ‘I try to bring our developing farmers closer to their financial records by normalising record-keeping and keeping updated financial statements to help farmers make sound decisions to inform their growth strategies,’ he explains. Molefe feels honoured to be part of the PGP team and wants to add value to the team while continuing to learn from the other members.

Publication: May 2025

Section: Pula/Imvula