With just days to go, the highly anticipated 2025 Mzansi Young Farmers’ Indaba is set to bring together the brightest young minds in agriculture for two days of knowledge-sharing, networking, and inspiration.
Hosted by Food for Mzansi at the Lavender Kontrei Market in Pretoria North on 1 and 2 April, this event is the ultimate gathering for young farmers and older farmers eager to level up their skills, tap into new opportunities, and be part of a transformative agricultural movement.
It is more than just a conference—it’s a launch-pad for the future of farming.
Whether you’re looking for funding, business collaborations, or cutting-edge agricultural insights, this is the place to be.
What to expect
Big Brands, Bigger Opportunities: 2024 saw major investments and partnerships come to life, and 2025 promises even greater prospects for young farmers. Expect key industry players ready to connect, collaborate, and invest in the next generation of agripreneurs.
Masterclasses That Matter: From enterprise development to biotech innovations, this year’s event will feature deep-dive sessions into the latest strategies shaping agriculture.
Empowering Communities: The indaba will spotlight initiatives aimed at transforming local farming communities, equipping young farmers with the tools and networks they need to thrive.
Game-Changing Masterclasses
This year’s indaba features six powerhouse masterclasses designed to equip attendees with the skills and insights needed to navigate the modern agricultural landscape and sessions will cover:
- Climate-Smart Farming – How technology and precision climate data can help farmers adapt to unpredictable weather patterns.
- Mechanisation & Precision Agriculture – Insights from John Deere experts on advanced machinery and data-driven farming.
- Export Readiness – Guidance on accessing international markets and trade regulations, presented by PPECB specialists. F
- Farm Finances & Investment – Mastering cash flow, loan applications, and strategic investments with experts from Masisizane and Old Mutual.
- Livestock Health & Disease Prevention – Practical insights on vaccinations, disease control, and productivity.
- Cannabis Opportunities – Exploring the legal and business aspects of cannabis farming in South Africa.
A Stellar Line-Up of Industry Leaders
The year’s event will feature keynote addresses from some of South Africa’s most influential figures in agriculture, including:
- John Steenhuisen MP, Minister of Agriculture – The role of policy in shaping the future of farming.
- Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, MEC for Agriculture & Land Reform (Gauteng) – What’s next for South African agriculture?
- Ivor Karan, Founder of Karan Beef – Breaking into the commercial sector: Lessons from a beef giant.
- Kgomotso Ranchu, Free State Cattle Farmer – Building resilience and sustainability in livestock farming.
Meet the Exhibitors
The Mzansi Young Farmers’ Indaba will showcase top industry exhibitors, including;
- PulseAfrika
- Redstag Ranch,
- The Milk Producers’ Organisation,
- Fairtrade Africa,
- Khula App Pty Ltd,
- Old Mutual, and
- Onderstepoort Biological Products.
These brands will offer resources, innovative solutions, and business opportunities to support young farmers in building sustainable agribusinesses.
