Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
The South African potato industry, a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy, is undergoing significant transformation.
Efforts to promote inclusivity in production, market access, skills development, and gender equity are paving the way for a more representative and equitable sector. Despite notable strides, there are substantial opportunities remaining to grow the industry’s contribution to inclusive development and economic empowerment, particularly for black producers.
Expanding Inclusivity
Most South African produced potatoes are consumed locally, presenting immense opportunities for growth in exports and inclusivity.
Black producers currently contribute a small but steadily increasing share of the total hectares under potato cultivation. Potatoes SA has been at the forefront of initiatives to expand this contribution by supporting black producers through mentorship, training, and access to certified seed.
Over 493 commercial potato producers are producing on more than 52 953 ha. Limpopo is the largest producer followed by the Free State at 12 099 and 10 389 ha, respectively.
Through its enterprise development programme (EDP), Potatoes SA supports over 25 black producers annually with funding and plants over 150 ha.
In collaboration with the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), Potatoes SA has ensured that producers have the necessary production inputs and machinery at hand. These collaborations have increased access to irrigation systems, tractors, and other vital infrastructure, enabling producers to scale up their operations.
A notable project is the potato commercialisation programme, which combines funding, technical support, and mentorship to empower black producers to compete effectively in the industry. This programme is also being rolled out in other provinces such as Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.
Figure 1: South African potato production regions.
Market Access
Market access remains one of the most significant challenges for black potato producers. At national fresh produce markets (FPMs), black producers account for only 2% of the potatoes sold, underscoring the need for continued intervention.
The cost of production is high, but with mentorship and adherence to best practices, many producers have achieved high-quality yields that fetch good returns.
Potatoes SA plays a crucial role in improving market access by appointing experienced mentors for its supported projects. These mentors guide producers in adopting optimal production techniques, enhancing quality, and meeting market requirements. This support has enabled black producers to penetrate not only formal markets such as FPMs, but also secure contract farming opportunities with industry giants such as McCain Foods and PepsiCo.
For many black producers, informal markets and cross-border trade with Mozambique have become vital channels. These markets reduce transportation costs and eliminate middlemen, allowing producers to retain more of their earnings.
However, as the industry evolves, there is a pressing need to expand opportunities for black producers in both domestic and international markets.
Figure 2: Black potato producers’ share in FPMs, 2024.
Skills Development and Training
Skills development is an essential component of the transformation agenda. Potatoes SA offers a comprehensive package of training programmes that address the critical needs of producers. These include workshops on potato production, seed assessment, financial management, and more.
Training sessions incorporate practical demonstrations, providing producers with hands-on experience and deeper insights into the concepts.
The small grower development programme is another key initiative, reaching over 600 rural community members with knowledge of cost-effective potato production.
Planting demonstrations and farmers’ days are held nationwide, equipping participants with the skills needed to embark on or improve potato farming ventures.
In the academic realm, the Potatoes SA bursary programme has supported numerous students, fostering a pipeline of skilled graduates for the industry. The organisation is actively pursuing partnerships with industry players to increase funding for bursaries and graduate placement, ensuring that emerging talent finds opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the sector.
Promoting Gender Equity
Gender inclusivity remains a challenge, as black women account for less than 10% of potato producers.
However, targeted government policies and support programmes have begun to shift this dynamic. Potatoes SA has seen a growing number of women entering the industry through its initiatives.
Trailblazers such as chairperson of Gledlumhlanga Co-op, Nosipho Vuthela, and young producer Cynthia Mokgobu, exemplify the potential of women in potato farming. Vuthela and her co-operative cultivate over 20 ha of vegetables, maize, and potatoes, while Mokgobu, supported by the LDARD and Potatoes SA, manages a successful 10 ha potato operation. Similarly, Cecilia Mamabolo, an experienced producer from Bela Bela, has established herself as a formidable producer with an off-take agreement for her potato harvest. These women serve as inspirations, encouraging more young women to join the sector and driving broader gender transformation in agriculture.
Opportunities for Collaboration
Collaboration is essential to unlocking the full potential of black producers in the potato industry. Potatoes SA and various stakeholders are exploring innovative projects such as establishing a chips factory in Limpopo as part of a public-private partnership.
This initiative promises to create new market opportunities and foster economic growth in the region.
Industry events such as the Potatoes SA Potato Congress, Research Symposium, and Transformation Symposium further enhance collaboration by providing platforms for black producers to access critical information, technology, and funding. Exposure to industry advancements and networking opportunities helps producers stay competitive and innovative.
Conclusion
The transformation of the South African potato industry is a work in progress, with notable achievements as well as considerable room for growth.
Through partnerships, mentorship, and training, Potatoes SA is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and sustainable industry. By addressing market access barriers, promoting gender equity, and fostering skills development, the sector can unlock the untapped potential of black producers and position itself as a global leader in potato production.
The journey towards inclusivity is not without challenges, but with the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, the South African potato industry can achieve its vision of shared growth and prosperity. – Brian Makhele, transformation specialist, Potatoes SA
For more information, email the author at brian@potatoes.co.za.