PRODUCER FOCUS
Dynamic
partnership
Pini Jan Kgosimore and Sophie Dikeledi Mabaso have already
harvested more than 40 tons of sunflower this season.
In this edition, Julias Ramohlabi* introduces us to dynamic duo Pini Jan Kgosimore and
Sophie Dikeledi Mabaso of Mafabatho Farm in Wesselsbron who, through their associa-
tion with Senwes, have managed to turn their farm around.
By Kefiloe Manthata
EARLY YEARS
Kgosimore and Mabaso both grew up
around farming, albeit at different times.
Sophie’s late father, who was Kgosimore’s
friend, started Mafabatho Farm back in
2002, farming mainly with white maize.
As a friend, Jan spent a lot of time help-
ing Mabaso’s father and slowly became
part of their family. His daughter, Sophie
was intrigued by the work her dad was
doing and shadowed him wherever he
went. For as long as she can remem-
ber, Jan has always been around. When
Sophie’s father passed away, it came as
no surprise that Jan would partner up
with Sophie to ensure that the farm stays
afloat.
SENWES
The duo have faced many challenges
since trying to carry on the business
after the passing of Mabaso’s father.
While seeking assistance and trying to
grow their farm, Kgosimore and Mabaso
crossed paths with Grain SA’s Johan
Kriel, who told them about what Senwes
could do to help grow their business and
introduced them to Julias Ramohlabi.
“When Johan introduced us to Ramohlabi,
we were facing many challenges. Senwes
helped turn our farm around within a very
short space of time. We have witnessed
miraculous changes in production, none
of which would have been possible with-
out the help we received from Senwes,” a
grateful Kgosimore explained.
*Julias Ramohlabi, Senwes Manager: Developing Farmers, is a man who wears many hats. In the upcoming editions of Senwes Scenario,
he will be taking us to many a developing farmer and through the various services Senwes offers developing farmers. Some of the ser-
vices include access to finance, mentorship, market and farm planning.
26
SENWES SCENARIO | WINTER 2018