Farmers need more than access to opportunities; they need practical support that enables them to build profitable, sustainable businesses. This was according to a farmer panel at the AgriCulture Gauteng Annual Congress held recently in Pretoria. Moderated by nutritionist and farmer Dr Ethel Zulu, the panel brought together Quinty Rabophala, director of Kenokatha Farms; Pethole Raseropo, known as “The Seedling Guy”; and Pauline Paulse of Nu Harvest Farm. Rabophala, who started farming on three hectares after moving from the banking sector, said profitability in agriculture should be viewed differently from conventional business models. Much of the income generated by a growing farm has to be reinvested into infrastructure and productive assets. “A farming business is not a business that you enter into today, and then you start making money. You build it,” she said. She explained that her farm continues to reinvest its income into areas such as irrigation and equipment. While she currently hires tractors, she aims to build an asset base that will eventually allow the business to operate with greater independence. Related stories Gauteng farmers urged to harness massive urban market Aucamp outlines strategy for biosecurity, trade, and infrastructure The business of farming: How to make your...