Limpopo MEC Nakedi Kekana Supports Mazeli Farm with Tractor Handover and Harvesting Programme

The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Nakedi Kekana, recently handed over a tractor and oversaw a harvesting programme at Mazeli Farm, located in the Blouberg Municipality, Capricorn District. The farm, led by Andries Masoga, has emerged as a model of agricultural success, demonstrating the impact of government support, producer commitment, and strategic market partnerships.

Mazeli Farming and Projects is a success story under the Department’s Farmer and Producer Support Programme. The enterprise illustrates how targeted interventions can transform an emerging farmer into a commercially competitive player in the sector.

Before receiving departmental support, Mazeli operated on just 4 hectares of tomatoes and 5 hectares of butternuts, supported by a single centre pivot irrigation system. Today, the farm’s primary focus is potato production, covering 26.5 hectares. Of this, 10 hectares are under contract with PepsiCo’s Simba brand, while 16.5 hectares of Mondial potatoes are earmarked for the Mozambique export market.

Mazeli employs 10 permanent staff members and engages 150 seasonal workers during peak periods. The expansion has been made possible through collaborative efforts by the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the National Department of Rural Development, and Potatoes South Africa. Investments have included upgraded irrigation systems, mechanisation improvements, and on-site storage facilities. These enhancements have improved productivity and ensured consistent supply for both domestic and export markets.

Since pivoting to potato farming in 2021, Mazeli’s yields have increased dramatically from 10 tonnes per hectare to 55 tonnes per hectare in 2024. Strategic offtake agreements with PepsiCo and export partnerships have created new revenue streams. Plans are underway to enter the fresh produce market with washed and graded potatoes, further diversifying the farm’s offerings.

MEC Kekana emphasized the importance of supporting emerging farmers and fostering sustainable commercial enterprises. The Mazeli Farm story reflects how coordinated government assistance, market linkages, and farmer dedication can transform small-scale operations into thriving commercial enterprises.

Mazeli Farm now stands as a benchmark for agricultural growth in Limpopo, demonstrating how innovation, investment, and strategic partnerships can drive the province’s agricultural sector forward.