Mahikeng – The MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West, Madoda Sambatha, has
extended his warm wishes to the province’s outstanding farmers, who were honoured at 2025 Grain SA’s Day
of Celebration awards ceremony, held on 2 October 2025 at Nampo Park, Bothaville.
Mr Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, a farmer from Ditsobotla Local Municipality, was crowned 2025 New Era
Commercial Farmer of the Year, a prestigious accolade recognising exceptional innovation, leadership, and
excellence in commercial farming. As part of this honour, he received a John Deere tractor to enhance his planting
operations, further empowering him to expand production and improve efficiency on his farm.
The province was also represented by Itumeleng Mongane, winner of the 2025 Smallholder Farmer of the
Year award for his dedication, resilience, and outstanding contributions to small-scale farming; Mpho Munyai,
runner-up in the New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year category; and Nkosana Mthimkhulu, runner-up in the
Potential Commercial Farmer of the Year category.
According to the organisers of this annual event, Grain SA, these awards are designed not only to celebrate the
dedication, perseverance, and achievements of farmers nationwide but also to inspire young farmers,
encouraging them to embrace agriculture with passion, determination, and a forward-looking vision.
The 2025 Commercial Farmer of the Year, Mr. Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, who trained in electrical engineering
and fitting and turning, has built a thriving mixed farming operation, producing maize, sunflower, and small
white beans, alongside a premium herd of Brahman, Simbra, and Bonsmara cattle. He attributes his meticulous
record-keeping, dedication, and strong work ethic as key factors in earning national recognition among South
Africa’s leading emerging commercial farmers. He also credits his success to ongoing learning and guidance from
agricultural experts.
MEC Madoda Sambatha extended his heartfelt congratulations to all farmers who participated in this year’s
awards, including the runner-ups, for their hard work, commitment, and contributions to advancing agriculture
in the province.
He described the awards as a moment of immense pride for the North West, noting that the recognition of these
farmers reflects the province’s growing influence and stature in the national agricultural sector.
“Winning in this competition is not new to our farmers. In previous years, such as in 2023, the New Era
Commercial Farmer of the Year title was also claimed by a farmer, Mr. Shimi Raphotho from this province.
“That alone shows that we are doing something right in the North West, from our robust farmer support
programmes to the unwavering dedication of our producers who continue to demonstrate excellence and
innovation in their work. Their achievements inspire both the young and old farmers across, proving that with
perseverance, vision, and the courage to seize opportunities, success in agriculture is within everyone’s reach,”
MEC Sambatha concluded.
As the province celebrates these remarkable milestones, the stories of these farmers stand as powerful reminders
that with determination, innovation, and support, local farmers can thrive and drive the transformation of South
Africa’s agricultural landscape.
Mr Botlhale Jacob Tshabalala, 2025 New Era Commercial Farmer of the Year, celebrates his triumph with the John Deere
tractor that marks his journey of excellence and growth.
Issued by:
The Directorate of Communication Services
The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
www.facebook.com/nwpgdard/
X: @nwpg_dard
Contact Person: Prince Seokotsa
Acting: Director, Communication Services
Cell : 078 456 6352
Email : PSeokotsa@nwpg.gov.za
OR
For enquiries:
Ms Khutala Tshangela
MEC’s Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za