The Agri 5 Expo in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, showcased opportunities for small-scale and emerging farmers through access to technology, information, and financial services.
Despite forecasts of heavy rainfall, the Agri 5 Expo, held at the Breeze Inn in Pietermaritzburg, kicked off smoothly, drawing attendees from across the agricultural value chain.
“We had a very successful show today. Thankfully, the day turned out much better than was forecast, and we’re happy with how everything unfolded,” Tsholo Mokobe, managing director of Atone Works and organiser of the expo, told Farmer’s Weekly.
“Exhibitors have told us they’re happy with the level of engagement and professionalism among attendees,” he added.
Mokobe said he was also encouraged by the participation of farmers living with disabilities. “My highlight today was seeing so many farmers with disabilities make the effort to attend. Agriculture can be a very challenging environment, but their perseverance is inspiring. It reminds us to ensure that future expos are more accessible for everyone.”
Explaining the concept behind Agri 5, he said the expo focuses on five key agricultural commodities: crops, cattle, poultry, pigs, and dairy. The aim is to connect farmers with private-sector companies and government departments.
“We aim to help emerging farmers move towards commercial farming by giving them access to resources, technology, and expertise relevant to these [five] commodities,” he added.
Daren Harvett, area business manager for equipment manufacturer Husqvarna in KwaZulu-Natal, said this was his third time attending Agri 5 and noted that the exhibitor base has become more varied over the years.
“It’s great to see how the event has broadened. In the past, it was mostly tractor companies, but this year we’ve got suppliers of trucks, water pumps, dams, and reservoirs. It’s a healthy mix of reputable brands that can support emerging farmers,” he said.
Harvett said that Husqvarna, a sponsor of the expo, is committed to supporting small-scale and emerging farmers.
“Husqvarna sees great potential in South Africa’s emerging farming sector. Food sustainability is vital around the world, and we’re proud to offer equipment that helps [small-scale] farmers produce efficiently and safely. Operator safety is always a priority for us,” he explained.
Harvett added that the feedback from farmers after demonstrations was positive: “We have a strong dealer network across the country, which gives farmers confidence that they can access support and spare parts without having to travel long distances.”
Sanet Schutte, agricultural insurance manager at Hollard in KwaZulu-Natal, said the expo offered emerging farmers valuable exposure.
“It’s a great opportunity for new farmers to gain knowledge and network. The presentations this morning were insightful, and you could see attendees really benefitting from them,” she said.
She also emphasised the importance of agricultural insurance for all farmers, regardless of size.
“Insurance provides financial security. Whether a farmer owns 10 cattle or 100, losing them can have a huge financial impact.
“Many emerging farmers don’t know about insurance options, but it can make a big difference, even starting small by insuring their livestock, equipment, or home,” she explained.
Schutte added that Hollard aims to raise awareness in KwaZulu-Natal about insurance options for small-scale farmers.
“There’s still a lot of development needed in terms of understanding how premiums are calculated and what’s covered. The more exposure we can create, the more farmers will see the long-term benefits,” she said.
