Looking relaxed, wearing khaki shorts and standing next to a tractor: When you look at farming publications profiling successful farmers; you might think farming is a hobby.

Just erase that mental picture, farming is a serious business. While other people are fortunate enough to inherit land and have been raised in a farming tradition, others have to start on a small patch of land and make ends meet.

Commercial farmers, who have been in the game much longer, make farming seem much easier because they have established networks with buyers and have more access to productive resources and finances.  For an emerging farmer, the game is different. You have to fight to access markets and productive assets. Simply put: Farming is not a weekend hobby. You have to give it your all.

To make it, you will need a business plan, courage and the spirit that never gives up.

If you farm without having a business plan, you might take longer to reach your goals as a farmer. Trial and error are not the best way to farm, you need a solid business plan that considers market access, supply and demand, farm operations, management structure, financial analysis and products. Your well-thought plan and your passion for farming will bring you success.

A business plan helps you with an important part of starting your farm venture, that is; defining what it will be. Do you want to have a soy or maize farm? Do you plan to keep cattle, goats or sheep? Or are you going to consider a variety of animals and crops? You might even consider agri-tourism, where people will come to experience and enjoy farm life.

So, if you think of becoming a successful farmer, then become a successful businessman first. All the best!

      – Mokgokong Mokgethi