Speaking at the Grain SA Farmer of the Year Awards in Johannesburg on 31 October, Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen commended farmers for their determination and innovation, saying excellence is born not of comfort but of courage and hard work.
Photo: Magda du Toit
Steenhuisen added that government recognises the challenges farmers must deal with every day. “All these challenges surely feel as if they stack up as high as the silos found across the country. But still, you persevere and plant each season,” he said.
The Grain SA Grain Producer of the Year Award, in collaboration with Syngenta as a long-standing partner, stands as a testament to the excellence and sustainability of South African grain farmers over the past 26 years.
In his welcome speech, Jeremia Mathebula, vice-chairperson of Grain SA, pointed out that farming is not only about planting; it is also about knowing when to act and when to wait: “It is all about timing.”
He added that the finalists’ journeys reflect their perseverance and dedication.
Hansie Viljoen from Leeudoringstad in North West was named the 2025 Grain SA/Syngenta Grain Producer of the Year. The other finalists were JP Truter from Moorreesburg in the Western Cape and Riaan Taljaard from Hoopstad in the Free State.
Viljoen runs a family operation where his three sons are also now involved. With farms in the Free State, North West, and Botswana, he believes in diversification, smart financial management, and a balance between chemistry and biology to promote soil health.
Honouring farmers for their outstanding contributions
The Grain Producer of the Year Award honours producers for their exceptional contributions to grain production in South Africa. It recognises those who use cutting-edge technology, manage resources efficiently, and implement sustainable practices that protect the environment and boost productivity amid challenges like climate change, rising input costs, and fluctuating markets.
The awards emphasise that the future of farming lies in innovation and adaptability.
“One of the reasons why we are here tonight is to set benchmarks that will help our farmers survive, stay competitive, and become the best in the world,” Dr Tobias Doyer, CEO of Grain SA, said.
By recognising producers from all backgrounds and regions, Grain SA is sending a powerful message of hope and inclusivity.
The award highlights producers who have mastered the delicate balance between tradition and technology, dreams and reality, and profitability and sustainability; those who understand the art of knowing what to plant, when to plant it, and when to step back.
It also serves to inspire the younger generation of producers who must eventually take over the responsibility of producing grain to feed the nation. Seeing the success of others fosters a culture of excellence and reinforces the idea that sustainable practices are not only good for the environment but also the key to long-term profitability.
It sends a message to younger producers that perseverance, strategic thinking, and a willingness to embrace change are crucial to achieving success.
went to farmer Jozeph du Plessis from Schweizer-Reneke. He was acknowledged for his strategic thinking, insights, and knowledge. Du Plessis on the executive team of Grain SA for 22 years.
“[Du Plessis] is a team member and mentor, but what stands out most is his humbleness and willingness to help others,” Danie Minnaar, vice-chairperson of Grain SA, said.
Jaco Minnaar and Derek Mathews, former Grain SA chairpersons, both received the Grain SA Golden Grain Award. Minnaar is the former president of Agri SA, and Mathews is currently serving as deputy president of Agri SA. Both have created a legacy in the industry.
Other achievers
Celebrated at the Ukukhula Conference held earlier in October at Nampo Park, the winners in each category were:
- 2025 Subsistence Farmer of the Year: Rameshego Sarah Mahladi
- 2025 Smallholder Farmer of the Year: Itumeleng Naphtaly Mongane of North West
- 2025 Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year: Madinda Jabulani Mashinini of the Free State
- 2025 New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year: Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala of North West
Grain SA’s Ukukhula Conference brought together farmers from diverse backgrounds to celebrate transformation, resilience, and success.
