From NSFAS Allowance to Award Winning Farmer: The Rise of Nkosinathi Makamela

Nkosinathi Makamela represents a new generation of young South African farmers who are turning limited resources into real agricultural success. His journey began under difficult circumstances after the loss of his mother in 2019, which placed pressure on his family’s small-scale farming operation in Idutywa in the Eastern Cape. With his father struggling to manage livestock and crops alone, Makamela stepped in to support the household while continuing his studies. What started as a necessity quickly became a purpose driven venture that changed his life. Today, he is recognised as one of the Eastern Cape’s trailblazing young farmers, proving that determination and action can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Makamela made a bold decision in 2020 to use his NSFAS allowance of R1500 to start a vegetable farming business. At the time, he had no formal experience in farming, but he relied on research, advice from experienced farmers, and a willingness to learn quickly. He planted spinach, cabbage, carrots, beetroot, and green pepper, focusing on crops that could generate fast returns within his community. His efforts paid off as demand grew, with some days seeing him sell out his produce within five hours. On one occasion, he made R760 in just a few hours, a strong result for a small startup operation. This early success helped him build confidence and establish a reputation as a reliable local producer.

His farming model has since evolved into a mixed farming system that combines crops and livestock. Makamela now farms vegetables alongside pigs and plans to expand into poultry production. He aims to reduce feed costs by producing his own inputs, planting maize and planning to introduce soya beans to create balanced pig feed. In addition, he grows crops like pumpkin, watermelon, spinach, and cabbage to diversify income and manage risk. This integrated approach allows him to maximise land use while improving sustainability and profitability. It also reflects his long term goal of transitioning from small-scale farming into a fully commercial operation.

Despite his progress, Makamela has faced significant challenges that many emerging farmers will recognise. Pest control has been a recurring issue, with worms once destroying his spinach crop before he intervened with treatment. Water shortages due to drought have limited his planting capacity, forcing him to invest in a borehole to secure a more reliable supply. At the same time, unexpected flooding in his area has caused soil erosion and washed away seeds and fertiliser. Market access remains another hurdle, as he sometimes struggles to sell all his produce despite strong local demand. These challenges highlight the realities of farming and the need for resilience, planning, and continuous problem solving.

Makamela runs his farming business with the support of his siblings and a family friend, creating a small but committed team. He currently operates on his family’s 3.5 hectare farm, Lolo Mixed Farming, while also planning to expand onto additional land available to him. To market his produce, he uses social media platforms like Facebook, where he posts updates and takes orders directly from customers. He also supplies local vendors who sell his products in nearby towns, helping him reach a wider market. Although he does not yet have formal partnerships with retail stores, he is actively working toward securing these opportunities to grow his business. His approach shows how digital tools and community networks can play a key role in modern farming success.

Looking ahead, Makamela has clear and ambitious goals for the future. He wants to become a commercial farmer with his own land, specialising in both crop and livestock production. He also plans to open a fruit and vegetable shop to sell his produce directly and create additional income streams. Beyond his own business, he hopes to establish an agricultural school that offers short courses to aspiring farmers, helping others gain practical knowledge and enter the industry. His vision goes beyond personal success and focuses on building a lasting legacy that supports community development. This mindset positions him as not just a farmer, but an emerging agripreneur with long term impact.

Makamela’s journey offers practical lessons for young and aspiring farmers across South Africa. Starting small with available resources, staying committed to learning, and adapting to challenges are key factors behind his growth. He emphasizes that farming requires discipline, time management, and sacrifice, especially when balancing studies and business responsibilities. His story also shows the importance of family support and community engagement in building a sustainable enterprise. By taking action early and staying focused on his goals, he has created opportunities where few existed.

The rise of Nkosinathi Makamela demonstrates what is possible when determination meets opportunity, even on a small scale. His success highlights the potential of youth in agriculture and the role they can play in strengthening food security and rural economies. While challenges remain, his progress shows that with the right mindset and support, small beginnings can lead to significant achievements. As he continues to grow his business and pursue his vision of commercial farming, Makamela stands as a powerful example of resilience and innovation in South Africa’s agricultural sector.