Farmworkers to changemakers:

Agri Dwala's recipe for success

Kosie van Zyl, Agri Dwala empowerment farm

True success lies in serving others. Kosie van Zyl's philosophy of servant leadership forms the beating heart of Agri Dwala, a thriving black-owned, diversified farming operation. Its farmers share resources, time and knowledge, while a collaborative spirit and unwavering passion help drive transformation in the agricultural sector.

Kosie van Zyl, once a farm worker himself, understands the challenges emerging farmers face. An act of generosity from a local farmer allowed him to own his land, and Kosie decided to pay it forward.

Driven by this experience and recognising the potential in others, Kosie partnered with agricultural advisor Piet Blom. Together, they founded Agri Dwala, a successful black-owned diversified farming operation and model for sustainable economic empowerment. Inspired by the help he received, Kosie nurtured the skills of farm workers and small-scale cattle farmers struggling on the Napier commonage, laying the foundation for Agri Dwala’s future success.

Starting in 2006 with leased land, Agri Dwala expanded with support from government programmes and private partners. Today, the Agri Dwala Trust, owned by individuals passionate about sustainable agriculture, empowers new generations of black farmers. Its legacy includes thriving operations and black farmers mentoring other aspiring individuals.

Kosie emphasises "servant leadership" as the core of Agri Dwala's success. He puts the well-being of all stakeholders first, including farm workers, partners and the community. True success is not about making money but helping others, he believes.

Agri Dwala is a shining example of how collaboration and purpose-driven leadership can unlock black economic empowerment in the agricultural sector. Its success rests firmly on five key pillars.

1. Cultivate passionate partners: Agri Dwala looks for partners who are passionate about farming and eager to learn. Once they've proven their potential, they are offered shares. Kosie deems this an essential part of the business model.

"As a mentor or employee, it's easy to leave when things get tough. But when you own a piece of something, you invest your heart, sweat and money in it. You can't just give up and walk away.

"To be honest, there were moments when I thought of quitting. But having a stake in the farming operation kept me going."

2. Purpose trumps profit: "We must change how we think about owning farmland as a symbol of wealth," Kosie says. Owning land alone doesn't create sustainable wealth. "To make a profit, you need to work hard and produce high-quality food to sell, then reinvest the profit in the farm and its infrastructure. If you are solely motivated by financial gains, your endeavour will likely fail, regardless of how sound your business plan may be," he says.

3. Practice servant leadership: Kosie believes in leading by example, embodying servant leadership. He devotes his time, energy and resources to uplifting others. His selflessness fosters trust and collaboration, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. "Authentic leadership lies in serving others, not dictating orders," he says.

4. Invest in training: The operation invests heavily in continuous learning and development. Training and mentorship programmes equip stakeholders with the skills and knowledge to succeed – from financial planning to agricultural consulting to help their employees and shareholders grow personally and professionally.

5. Build generational wealth: Investing in economic opportunities for rural women and building lasting wealth is vital. Within the Agri Dwala group, women manage a guest house and a wedding venue on the farm to earn an extra income and foster their entrepreneurial spirit. Additionally, the operation's trust structure allows for inheritance, ensuring that the benefits of their hard work are passed on to future generations.

Contact
Kosie van Zyl 
Email: adico@twk.co.za

Additional reading
Land reform and restitution are complex and sensitive topics for many farmers. However, the Agri Dwala model offers a beacon of hope and inspiration. In his book, Uit klip gekap, Pastor Etienne van Heerden presents constructive stories and practical lessons on sustainable and empathetic farming practices. The book chronicles the journey of Kosie and Liezel van Zyl in building Agri Dwala. Chris Burgess, Landbouweekblad editor, applauds their dedication and hard work. "It’s a story that deserves to be widely shared and celebrated."
Uit klip gekap is published by Landbouweekblad and supported by Kaap Agri. Order the book for R295 or send an email to johan.terblanche@media24.com.