Land Bank Urges Action to Unlock Youth Potential in Agriculture

As South Africa commemorates Youth Month, the Land Bank has called for urgent and coordinated action to increase youth participation in agriculture, warning that the sector’s long-term sustainability depends on attracting a new generation of farmers, agripreneurs and agricultural professionals.

Despite agriculture’s critical role in food security, rural development and economic growth, young South Africans continue to enter the sector at rates far below what is needed to secure the future of the industry.

The call comes against the backdrop of persistently high youth unemployment. South Africa’s official unemployment rate among people aged 15 to 34 remains above 45%, while unemployment among those aged 15 to 24 stands at approximately 61%, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable economic opportunities.

According to Land Bank Acting CEO Jabu Mphambo, agriculture presents significant opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and innovation, but barriers continue to prevent many young people from accessing the sector.

“Young people bring fresh ideas, technological skills and entrepreneurial energy that are essential for building a modern, competitive and sustainable agricultural industry,” says Mphambo. “As a development finance institution, our responsibility is to ensure that agriculture remains accessible and supported by the right financial and developmental tools.”

Barriers Holding Back Young Farmers

Mphambo identifies access to land as one of the biggest obstacles facing aspiring young farmers. Without secure access to productive land, many are unable to establish or expand viable farming enterprises.

Access to finance remains another major challenge. Agricultural businesses require significant investment in inputs, machinery, infrastructure and technology. However, traditional financing models often exclude young entrepreneurs who lack collateral, credit history or inherited assets.

Skills development and mentorship also remain critical gaps. Many young South Africans have limited exposure to agriculture as a career option and lack access to practical training opportunities and experienced mentors who can help navigate the complexities of farming as a business.

Mphambo says outdated perceptions of agriculture further discourage youth participation.

“Modern agriculture is far more than traditional farming. It encompasses technology, logistics, finance, sustainability, research, processing and agribusiness, offering a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities,” he explains.

A Young Farmer’s Success Story

The Land Bank points to the success of farmer Motlalepule Vincent Masiu as an example of what can be achieved when young people receive the right support.

Masiu, who received funding through the Land Bank, says mentorship played a vital role in his journey.

“If I could speak to my younger self before starting my farming journey, I would tell him to find two mentors – one for farming and one for life,” he says.

He adds that one of the most important lessons he has learned is that farming must be approached as a business.

“Cash flow is more important than net worth because assets alone do not keep operations running. Build the farm, but also build the person running it.”

His experience highlights the importance of combining financial support with technical guidance, mentorship and personal development.

Supporting the Next Generation

The Land Bank continues to expand its developmental mandate through initiatives aimed at improving access to finance and supporting emerging farmers.

Among these initiatives is the Farmers Academy, which equips young and developing farmers with practical agricultural skills, business management training, mentorship and exposure to modern farming practices.

The programme is designed to bridge knowledge gaps, build confidence and create pathways into agriculture for young people who may not come from farming backgrounds.

Mphambo says meaningful youth inclusion requires a collaborative approach involving government, educational institutions, industry stakeholders and the private sector.

“Supporting youth in agriculture requires an ecosystem that provides access to land, finance, mentorship, markets, technology and training. Collaboration is essential if we are to achieve lasting impact and build a stronger agricultural sector for future generations.”

A National Priority

The Land Bank believes unlocking youth participation in agriculture is both an economic necessity and a national priority.

With the right support structures in place, young South Africans have the potential to become the farmers, innovators, researchers and agribusiness leaders who will drive the future growth of the sector.

Through accessible finance, developmental programmes, strategic partnerships and targeted youth initiatives, the Land Bank says it remains committed to empowering the next generation of agricultural leaders and ensuring agriculture remains a viable and attractive career path for South Africa’s youth.