Years after William Monyela’s passing, his family continues to farm crops and vegetables.
Edward, Wiliam’s son, is now running the Maamodulo Farming Enterprise, which was formerly called Mahlabalerole Farm.
The farm is situated at Tickelyn village near Trichardstdal outside Hoedspruit.
Edward has a nine-to-five job but his son, Thabi, who was introduced to farming by his late grandfather, is the managing director of the business responsible for the day-to-day managing.
With the eight hectares of land they have managed to employ five permanent employees and during harvest time they employ many more seasonal workers.
Some of their produce include tomatoes, green beans, green pepper, baby corn and baby marrows.
The have also reached a lease agreement with two other users of a three-hectare piece of land which the owners only utilise during summer.
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Thabi told the Herald that their challenges as small scale farmers are to acquire a stable market and lack of proper working equipment. He is however thankful for markets such as the Spar Mopani Hub in Ofcalaco to whom they also sell their produce. They also sell to the national fresh produce markets in neighbouring provinces.
“Our grandfather taught us the importance of farming from a young age.
“In turn we are teaching the younger generation how to farm, although not all are interested, but they know the basics and understand that it is the family’s legacy.
“We will continue paying forward the family’s legacy as long as we live,” he said.
He further added that it is important for young people to get involve in agriculture and farming, because it gives food security.
For more information contact Thabi Monyela on 071 622 5522.
