Up Close and Personal with Lerato Senakhomo – African Farming

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?

I would have studied pig production at Buhle – this is what I think is missing in my career.

YOUR BIGGEST SUCCESS TO DATE?

Having involved John Deere in the operation. It has revolutionised my farming business.

WHO HAS MADE THE BIGGEST CONTRIBUTION TO YOUR BUSINESS SO FAR?

My parents laid the foundation for my career and they continue to play a big role in my life. The late Mme Pinky Buthelezi also made a big impact on me as a mentor.

WHAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP DO YOU HAVE WITH THE NEIGHBOURING FARMERS?

I have a good relationship with my neighbours, who are extremely helpful. We may not be good friends, but we help one another a lot.

WAS FINANCING A STRUGGLE FOR YOU? ANY ADVICE FOR OTHERS WHO NEED TO SECURE FUNDS?

It was and continues to be a struggle. My advice would be to keep knocking on every door – you never know which one will open.

WHAT ROLE DO INPUT SUPPLIERS PLAY IN YOUR OPERATION?

My input suppliers are my partners. They are part of what is going on in the business, particularly the grain production side.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER THE MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE IF YOU HAD THE CHANCE?

We need a minister who listens and takes the time to understand the needs of farmers. Her job is to uplift them through enough of the right kind of support.

HOW IMPORTANT IS ORGANISED AGRICULTURE TO YOUR BUSINESS?

I think it is particularly important. I’m a beneficiary of Grain SA study groups and receive a lot of information from the local Masithuthukeni farmers’ study group in Nigel.