Page 30 - MiNDSPACE Issue 2 2022 - Old Mutual Corporate

NOAH NYAWO
‘‘
Khula Milling Mpumalanga and YARD SA
Noah Nyawo is the Managing
Director of Khula Milling. He is
also the National Convenor of YARD SA (Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development), an organisation
of young farmers engaging government on agricultural issues. Nyawo led KZN YARD for five years and was instrumental in helping to set aside land for women and youth, which is now government policy.
‘Khula Milling in partnership with DARDLEA (Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs) was established to produce
grain products, specifically Khula Maize Meal, to provide access to markets for Mpumalanga’s previously disadvantaged grain farmers supported by DARDLEA. At the same time, we wanted to boost local food security and create jobs.’
Why did you start Khula Milling?
Do you also farm in your personal capacity?
‘Yes, I have been farming for 10 years and currently farm with sugarcane, vegetables, grains and cattle.’
What difficulties do you personally face as a farmer?
‘I am facing a common challenge faced by farmers and processors in South Africa – a negative correlation between investment and output; inputs become more and more expensive while outputs remain static, and funding is near impossible to come by.
‘I’m afraid if the situation continues like this, I might stop farming and processing because there will be no business for me.’
What are the positives about being a farmer?
‘Being in agriculture in South Africa provides you with a lot of opportunities, especially when you want to start a business. There is also a wide scope of career-pathing.’
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into the industry?
‘Agriculture is a lifetime career. It will still remain relevant in any situation. If you choose to do it, at least do it right. Then you will succeed.’
food security changeSPACE
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