Dr René Uys, director of Thinking Fusion AFRICA, argues that young South African farmers need to have the emotional fortitude to face up to the often harsh realities of agriculture in this country. In short, they have to be both skilled and brave, which is why self-development is crucial.
Agriculture is the focus of many political and public debates. Young leaders in agriculture need to take the lead in determining our future – it is as simple as that. Threats and speculations on the sector’s future abound; it is now more important than ever to debate, negotiate and participate in discourse, and offer arguments and counter-arguments effectively.
Unfortunately, this is not and has never been a well-developed skill among farmers, and particularly not when debate takes place over language and culture boundaries. But South Africa’s farmers have no choice: there is no longer another option but to develop these skills for their own survival and success as well as that of the sector.
As the Chinese proverb has it, ‘When the winds of change rage, some build shelters, while others build windmills’. Over the past six years I have met and worked with many young farmers who have courage and big hearts. It has been a joy for me to experience the talent, faith, optimism and hope they carry within them. I have been astonished at their development as leaders in the programmes presented and it has led me to the conclusion that the self-development of young farmers is key to our future prosperity and stability in South Africa.
A HEALTHY MIND IN A HEALTHY BODY
Agriculture is essential to our economic stability. A stable, growing sector is critical to regaining the trust of national and international investors, for job creation, and for food security in South Africa as well as across our borders. It is vital for regional development, our international image, stability and growth in the financial sector, and, most importantly, nation-building.
This is possible if each young farmer, like a seed, receives fresh water and nutrients (new knowledge and skill), and works at being a whole, balanced, integrated person.
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