By Anelisa Mokechane
With economic growth predicted at less than 1% in 2023, it’s crucial for the youth to focus on their own financial well-being. Having a backup plan is essential. One viable and less considered option is a career in agri-business, a sector of immense importance in South Africa. Agriculture fosters economic growth and reduces poverty and unemployment rates. There are numerous ways to engage in agriculture, unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit in the youth.
Are you chicken?
There are many ways to profit from a small flock of chickens. The poultry industry, with significant room for growth, presents an opportunity for South African youth. Starting a poultry business requires a minimum of R20,000 and up to R50,000, depending on the business size. Although this amount may seem substantial, it becomes manageable if, for example, five people contribute R5,000 to enter a co-operative farming venture.
Owning a poultry farm offers diverse income opportunities. With robust chicken and egg production, these can be sold to various supermarkets. Options include selling live chickens, pre-processed chickens, and eggs. Celebrities like actress Keke Mphuthi have recently entered the poultry business. As of May 2023, she placed her Goyapele Fresh Farm Chicken brand in Roots Butcheries in Mamelodi and Sunnyside, Pretoria, showcasing the potential in poultry ventures.
Grow Crops from a Small Piece of Land
While some youth may look down on students who pursue a diploma or degree in agricultural sciences, the world will always need good food. Permanent and seasonal jobs in farming and farm management are in demand around the world, including the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
In 2021, University of Fort Hare Animal Science student Nkosinathi Makamela started up a farming business. Nkosinathi used the savings from his NSFAS student account during Covid and a plot of family land. Nkosinathi is starting small to earn big. A small commercial farm on a family plot can earn much needed income by selling fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets or by hawking vegetables downtown or to tuckshop owners. The startup costs are low, and you can save money as you won’t need to buy vegetables and fruits, using those from your own land instead.
Cater with homegrown produce
Food is a staple at South African functions, including funerals, weddings, graduation parties, and baby showers. Catering is a lucrative way to earn money. If you grow your own vegetables and run a catering business, the savings can be significant. Using homegrown produce reduces the need to place orders, saving both money and time, and reducing stress and administrative tasks.
Internships in Agriculture Companies
Another way to engage in the agriculture sector is through internships. Agricultural companies often seek fresh graduates for internship positions. Opportunities are available at companies like PepsiCo. You can apply for internships through their career page, which is accessible globally.
Agriculture holds immense potential. If the youth could overcome the misconception that it’s a sector for the uneducated, the unemployment rate would have significantly decreased. Despite financial uncertainties, agriculture presents a viable way forward. Proper youth participation in agriculture in a country like South Africa requires a long-term commitment. Start by playing your part in revitalizing this crucial sector of our economy.