Musina: Tshililo Mafuka is making significant strides in the agricultural sector as a successful tomato farmer in Muswodi Dipeni, Limpopo. His passion for agriculture was ignited long before he embarked on his farming journey, and his story is one of resilience and contribution to South Africa's local food supply chain.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mafuka honed his skills in crop cultivation and machinery operation while employed at a farm several years ago. This hands-on experience inspired him to pursue his own farming venture, with a strategic focus on tomato production due to the crop's high market demand and suitability to Limpopo's climate.
Mafuka began his farming journey on 2.9 hectares, primarily cultivating tomatoes. His venture not only thrives in production but also generates employment, offering up to 20 seasonal jobs that provide income opportunities for local community members. Mafuka is among 10 smallholder farmers in Musina who collectively supplied over 3,386 tonnes of tomatoes to Tiger Brands for its All Gold Tomato Sauce.
His achievements were recognized when he was named Tiger Brands' inaugural Emerging Farmer of the Year / Most Promising Farmer for 2025, acknowledging his success and role in supporting sustainable agricultural development through his business, Bob and Maggie Agriculture (Pty) Ltd, founded three years ago.
The increased harvest was supported by Tiger Brand's Hulisani Agricultural Development Programme, which helped farmers enhance production, create jobs, and sustain employment across the value chain. For Musina-based farmers, irrigation infrastructure was crucial for maximizing production potential.
The Hulisani Agricultural Development Programme addresses key challenges faced by emerging farmers, including access to equipment, infrastructure, and markets. Maanda Milubi, Director for Transformation and Enterprise Supplier Development at Tiger Brands, emphasized the initiative's role in fostering interdependence between the company and local farmers, securing a steady supply of commodities and strengthening local value chains.
Mafuka attributes the strengthening and expansion of his farming operation to the support received from the Hulisani programme, which provided irrigation pipes, technical guidance, and financial support. He now holds a renewable annual contract to supply Tiger Brands with high-quality fresh tomatoes.
Mafuka's message to fellow emerging farmers is to start small, remain committed, and continue learning, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and continuous growth in the agricultural sector.