Planting the Seed

Entries for the SA Agri Awards are officially OPEN! Mmatsheko Mosito sits down with General Manager Ayanda Mguni to discuss what this year’s awards mean for farmers, agribusinesses, and the future of agriculture in South Africa. Don’t miss this important conversation celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership in the sector.

In December 2025, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Honourable Bernice Swarts, officially launched the National Biodiversity Assessment 2025 which is the most comprehensive picture we have of the state of South Africa’s ecosystems, species, and natural systems. To help us unpack what this assessment means for all, Carol Poole, Project Manager of the National Biodiversity Assessment at SANBI speaks to Mmatsheko Mosito.

Planting seeds for the next generation of African agri-entrepreneurs with Agri business analyst and coach, Alfred Ukane.

Agriculture is not just about production, it’s about people, systems, and collaboration. In this episode of Planting the Seed, Mmatsheko Mosito sits down with Leona Archary, CEO of the Agricultural Development Agency (AGDA), to reflect on 2025 and explore integrated plans shaping inclusive agricultural growth as we look ahead to 2026.

A bold new chapter is unfolding in the Eastern Cape. On September 5,  2025, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education & Training, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, together with local leaders and the Wholesale & Retail SETA led by CEO Tom Mkhwanazi, broke ground on an R80 million Agricultural Retail Hubat Ingwe TVET College.

Mmatsheko Mosito in conversation with Warren Hickinbotham as we unpack the vision behind the Organic & Natural Products Expo Africa 2025, happening 18–20 September at the Sandton Convention Centre...

Mmatsheko Mosito joined by visionary herpetologist Donald Schultz, founder of Snake Pharm, a groundbreaking anti-venom research and emergency response centre in KwaZulu-Natal.  Snake Pharm is transforming snake-human coexistence with cutting-edge biomimicry technology, producing life-saving antivenom in just one hour.

In this episode, Ghanaian farmer and advocate Enyonam Manye shares how the women at the heart of the shea butter trade are transforming tradition into a pathway for economic independence, community development, and global impact.

As we marked World Humanitarian Day (19 August), we sat down with Pavitray Pillay, Corporate Engagement & Behaviour Change Lead at WWF South Africa, to explore the powerful link between people and planet. Pavitray challenges us to fix the cause, not just the crisis calling for conservation that is rooted in justice, care, and community.  In this episode, we unpack why climate justice cannot be separated from social justice, and how the solutions of tomorrow must be grounded in inclusion, equality, and local leadership.

In this inspiring edition of Planting the Seed—Mmatsheko Mosito speaks to Francis Marsh, founder of Ubuntu CDU (Community Development and Upliftment)—a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering communities through sustainable agriculture, youth training, and food security initiatives. Based at Klipspruit-Wes Secondary School, Ubuntu CDU is redefining how education and environmental stewardship can uplift entire communities. Tune in as we explore how this grassroots project is helping young people grow not just food, but futures rooted in knowledge, resilience, and the spirit of Ubuntu.

In this Mandela Day special, Mmatsheko Mosito speaks with Chiara Henry from SA Harvest about the Buckets of Nutrition for Matriculants campaign, a powerful move from symbolic giving to systemic change. 

What happens after the harvest can make or break a farmer’s livelihood. In this episode of Planting the Seed on Channel Africa, host Mmatsheko Mosito speaks with Sheila Garakara, Country Manager for Solidaridad Zambia, about the hidden costs of post-harvest losses. From economic consequences to practical solutions, learn how Africa can transform agricultural waste into opportunity — and build more resilient food systems in the process.

In this episode, we explore a breakthrough in agricultural innovation: a new e-payment and digital registration system revolutionising Malawi’s cotton sector. Mr. Humphrey Nxumalo, Head of Programmes at Solidaridad Southern Africa, joins Mmatsheko Mosito to discuss how over 20,000 farmers — many accessing formal financial services for the first time — are now included in a system that boosts transparency, reduces loan defaults, and empowers women and youth. From pilot to national scale-up, this is a story of digital transformation, collaboration, and economic inclusion with lessons for the wider region.

Mmatsheko Mosito spoke to Chanel Pather, Programme Manager at SUNCASA, scaling urban nature-based solutions for climate adaptation in Sub-Saharan Africa.  Under her leadership, the innovative Litter Traps and Art Project is turning waste into wonders along the Jukskei River in Alexandra, Johannesburg. Through public art, community engagement, and environmental restoration, this initiative is not only addressing urban flooding and pollution, but also redefining how climate action can be locally led, socially inclusive, and artistically inspired.

Stakeholders in the Agricultural sector including Lamp Serge (Botswana) are building up momentum for collaboration to advance African Agriculture through at the  3d INTER - REGIONAL A G R I C U LT U R E S Y M P O S I U M scheduled to take place in Mombasa (Kenya) in September 2025.

Acting CEO of the Joburg Market, Mr. Sello Makhubela discusses the significance of the upcoming World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference to be held at the Sandton Convention Centre in May 2025. The African Edition themed gathering is said to look into: Shaping the Future of Fresh Produce Markets through Sustainability, Innovation, and Inclusivity.

Sharing the story of Pretty and Shadrack Kubyane, South African tech entrepreneurs and the founders of eFama App- a digital platform designed to connect farmers with commercial buyers and consumers.

Sharing the story of Pretty and Shadrack Kubyane, South African tech entrepreneurs and the founders of eFama App- a digital platform designed to connect farmers with commercial buyers and consumers.  

Plantingtheseed with Mmatsheko Mosito in conversation with Oarabile Ditedu, Manager at Lamp Serge (Stakeholder in the Agricultural sector) ahead of the build-up for collaboration to advance African Agriculture at the 3d INTER - REGIONAL A G R I C U LT U R E S Y M P O S I U M scheduled to take place in Mombasa (Kenya) in September 2025.

Distinguished agricultural engineer Dr Muthikitha Thiofhi (PhD) on how to successfully process mangoes for achaar and other byproducts.

Mmatsheko Mosito speaks to Raymond James Ntabazi, Zero Waste Coordinator with the Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO) in Uganda, ahead of the Green Africa Youth Organisation's upcoming hands-on waste and brand audit at Buyala Waste Management Facility on Tuesday, April 24th 2025.

Mpho Yengane, a PhD candidate at University of Cape Town (UCT) in South Africa speaks to MmatshekoMosito about his solar-powered cooling system that's assisting farmers who don't have access to electricity. 

Project Manager at Greenville Agriculture Engineering Solutions Africa, Isaac Semakula speaks about exciting developments with the mango plantation project and grooming the next generation of smart farmers in Uganda.

Luvo Gugwana, is the founder of Green Arch Innovations, a company pioneering sustainable solutions in the agricultural sector.

Priscilla Okutoyi is a Manager at Microsave Consulting, and brings over 10 years of expertise in SME banking, credit analysis, impact management, and start-up support.  Priscilla speaks on #Plantingtheseed about the third convening of the “Enhancing Financial Health for Women-Owned Microenterprises (WMEs) in South Africa” initiative.

It was in 2021when the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, Nigeria (GAIN), launched the Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples (SNIPS) Project in Nigeria.  The 5-year project is currently being implemented in four states: Benue, Kaduna, Nassarawa and Oyo, to improve the access and consumption of safe and nutritious foods in Nigeria. Godwin Ehiabhi, Senior Project Manager For Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples (SNIPS) project joins Mmatsheko Mosito in conversation. #Plantingtheseed 

Dr. Muthikhitha Thiofhi shares some knowledge on agri business practices. Dr.  Muthikhitha is an Agribusiness Consultant and a farmer since 2012. His journey in agriculture spans over a decade, during which he has specialized in developing sustainable farming businesses, bridging the gap between innovation and practicality. As a consultant, he worked with diverse stakeholders, empowering communities and guiding agripreneurs to unlock the full potential of their ventures. 

Ngcali Takata shares how he used part of his National Student fund from NSFAS to start a chick-raising business. A Medical Sciences graduate, Takata says he started the business to help his family. 

Certified agribusiness coach shares detailed insights into the 2024 agricultural year. Reviewing Africa’s Key Successes, Challenges, and What’s lies ahead for Sustainable Agriculture.    

Ruth Saleh Ardzard discusses the work of East-West Seed Knowledge Transfer Foundation Nigeria and its knowledge transfer efforts to empower women in Northern Nigeria. 

Usman Bara'u Munkaila Project Manager at Deliver Nigeria project discusses how the project will address key challenges facing smallholder farmers in Nigeria, which include low yields, limited market access, high post-harvest losses and inadequate access to finance. These issues are exacerbated by climate change and low demand for vegetables in the region.

Discussing the exciting National SDG Challenge!  This event was hosted by Soapbox South Africa and brought together the best young innovators from the University of Johannesburg, University of Pretoria, and Wits.  For eight intense weeks, they teamed up with giants like Standard Bank, Ivanhoe Mines, and Anglo American Platinum, working on ground-breaking solutions for real sustainability challenges. Panel of guests: -Amelia Francis (Team Lead | Head of Programme: SDG Challenge South Africa and from Soapbox South Africa) -Jacob Modiba (Acting Head of Sustainability at Anglo American Platinum)  -Caroline Kaitano (WITS Student: Team Lead | Pursuing her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering) -Bahloliwe Maphanga (WITS Student: Shared responsibility with all teammates such as meeting chair, secretary, research and consolidation of solution | Pursing a degree in Mining Engineering}

#Plantingtheseed hosts Ben Leyka, CEO of African Agri Council to discuss African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII) happening in November 2024 & latest food waste stats.

Award winning Rwandan founder of Green Acre Farms, Sibobugingo Jöel discusses milestone of securing 1.5 million in funds thanks to @aeerwanda & @Tearfund.

Joburg Market opens its doors for the much-anticipated Farmers’ and SMME Day on 17 October 2024. This event promises to ignite growth, drive opportunities, and champion inclusivity in the agricultural sector, aligning with the City of Johannesburg's bold Growth and Development Strategy. #Plantingtheseed

Founding director and political editor of Scrolla.Africa. Mr Zukile Majova talks about the upcoming inaugural Climate Media Awards which launches with R100,000 in prizes! The awards are open to reporters and content creators in communities all over South Africa. The competition, which closes on November 30th 2024, is open to submissions in Afrikaans, English and Zulu. 

The annual State of the Beer Economy event, was held at the Caledon Farm Research & Development Facility in the Western Cape, South Africa. South African Breweries (SAB) showcased its significant contribution to the agricultural economy at this gathering attended by the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuizenwho offered an in-depth exploration of the beer sector’s shared value and its inclusive role in growing the economy. We find out more about this event and discuss its outcomes. #Plantingtheseed talks to Naadirah Grimsel-Gradwell -Regulatory & Public Policy Director at the South African Breweries (SAB). 

Mmatsheko Mosito in conversation with African Agri Council CEO, Ben Leyka discussing agri investment on the continent of Africa, food insecurity crisis and the upcoming African Agri Investment Indaba (AAII).

Dr. Brylyne Chitsunge is a commercial farmer and the first Pan African Parliament Ambassador for Food Security. She joins #Plantingtheseed host, Mmatsheko Mosito to discuss sustainable agriculture practice, climate change, and Tools to support women farmers.

CEO of Dynamic agri business, Yalla Yalla Group Emmauel Ndayizigiye in conversation with Mmatsheko Mosito about the upcoming Africa Food Systems Forum happening in Kigali, Rwanda, Sept 2-6, 2024, and the African continent’s agricultural and food systems.

Mmatsheko Mosito picks the brain of Alfred Ukane. Ukane is one of the African continents sharpest minds in modern agriculture working as a certified Agribusiness Coach and Consultant currently residing in Nigeria. He speaks about agriculture as more than just farming and how to unlock sustainable financial opportunities.

Head of marketing product and channel at Metropolitan, Phumla Mavundla talks about how young farmers can navigate financial volatility.

Mmatsheko Mosito in conversation with member of Water Youth Parliament South Africa & Miss Earth Delegate- Mulalo Nethanani about her passion for water conservation and her Miss Earth journey.

The Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA) welcomes South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa's signing of the Climate Change Bill into law. We unpack the significance of this development with Board Chairperson at EAPASA, Prof Desmond Khangwelo Musetsho.

Jack Josiah Bright is a famer from Botswana and founder of Nitro Feed Farms Holdings (PTY), a 45-hectare farm. He started farming at the young age of 16 years, supporting my parents.  At Nitro Feed Farms, they produce and sell vegetables and seedlings. 

Retang Phaahla talks about how she co-founded the multi-award winning, Setšong Tea Crafters.

Catching up with Femi Adekoya, also known as The Flying Farmer. Femi has revolutionised Nigeria’s agriculture by giving drone-powered solutions to commercial and smallholder farmers. He shares details of his career journey in agriculture and also interrogates the prospects of smart farming in West Africa. #Plantingtheseed CA

We are in the West African country of Nigeria today with Dr. Prakash Kant Silwal - a development specialist with more than 25 years of experience developing and managing agriculture livelihood, food security, biodiversity, and natural resource management projects in the fragile, conflict, and humanitarian contexts of South Asia (Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan), the Middle East (Yemen), and Africa (Sudan, Liberia, Chad, and Nigeria). Dr. Silwal is currently a principal specialist at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA – A CGIAR entity) based in Nigeria where here he leads the design and implementation of agriculture livelihoods projects in the conflict-affected areas of northeast Nigeria.

Founder and CEO of Kevinot Farming, based in Matatiele in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, Nonopa Tenza shares her agribusiness expertise and how to achieve meaningful rural development. #PlantingtheseedCA

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria celebrated International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) As declared by The United Nations designated on 12 May the to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development. Dr. Khumbuzile Bophela-Dimpe and Dr. David Nsibo are both lecturers at the University of Pretoria and co-chairs of the International Plant Day organising committee.