Lungile Poultry Farm Shows Strong Growth Potential in Mpumalanga’s Agricultural Sector

Lungile Poultry Farm, located in Watervaal near Siyabuswa, stands as a clear example of how focused planning and support can drive success in agriculture. Established in 2019 by 33 year old Ms Lungile Mkhize, the farm has grown from a small operation into a thriving commercial layer enterprise. With a BTech degree in Agricultural Science Management from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Lungile entered the sector with both technical knowledge and a clear business vision. Her goal was not only to build a profitable poultry business but also to address pressing social challenges such as unemployment, poverty, and food insecurity. Today, her farm reflects that vision through consistent production, job creation, and skills development.

The farm currently houses 8,500 layer chickens and produces about 7,500 eggs each day, which demonstrates strong operational efficiency. This level of production positions the business as a reliable supplier within the local and regional market. Consistency in output is critical in the poultry sector, where buyers depend on stable supply to meet consumer demand. The farm has also created 12 permanent jobs, providing income and stability for local families. This direct impact on employment strengthens the economic base of the surrounding community. By maintaining a steady production system, Lungile Poultry Farm continues to build credibility as a scalable agricultural enterprise.

Skills development is another key strength of the project, as it actively supports young people entering the agricultural sector. One example is Nombulelo Mathejwa, a 21 year old student from Daantjie who is currently completing in service training at the farm. She is studying towards a Diploma in Animal Production at Nelson Mandela University, and the practical experience she gains on the farm is essential for her career growth. The presence of trainees highlights the farm’s role as a learning platform, not just a production unit. This approach helps bridge the gap between academic training and real world farming operations. It also ensures that the next generation of farmers gains hands on experience in a commercial environment.

Lungile credits much of her early growth to the support she received from the Mpumalanga Premier’s Youth Development Fund during the 2019 to 2020 period. This funding helped her establish and expand the farm at a critical stage, allowing her to invest in infrastructure and livestock. Access to financial support often determines whether young farmers succeed or fail, and this case shows the value of targeted development programmes. Her achievements have also been recognised at industry level, as she secured second place in the Commercial Category at the DARDLEA Female Entrepreneur Awards in 2024. Such recognition strengthens her profile and opens doors for further opportunities. It also serves as proof that young women can succeed in commercial agriculture with the right support and determination.

The farm’s growth and impact have attracted attention from national leadership, including Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ms Nokuzola Capa. She visited the project during her International Women’s Day Outreach Programme in the Dr JS Moroka Municipality, which focused on empowering women in agriculture. This visit highlights the importance of Lungile’s work within the broader national agenda of inclusive agricultural development. Government engagement at this level signals confidence in the project’s potential and its contribution to rural development. It also creates opportunities for further support, partnerships, and expansion. The recognition reinforces the farm’s position as a model for other young and emerging farmers.

Lungile Poultry Farm has strong potential for continued growth due to its solid foundation, consistent production, and clear social impact. The combination of technical expertise, strategic support, and a focus on community development has enabled the business to scale effectively. By creating jobs, supporting student training, and maintaining reliable output, the farm contributes to both economic and food security goals. With continued investment and support, the enterprise can expand its operations and reach new markets. Lungile Mkhize’s journey shows that with the right approach, young farmers in South Africa can build sustainable and impactful agricultural businesses.