Serdev Hosts successful farmers day and graduation ceremony

SerDev hosted a successful Farmers’ Day and Graduation Ceremony for emerging farmers on 27 January 2023, in conjunction with their partners and sponsors. The event, held at the Sernick Group farm in Liebenbergstroom near Edenville in the Free State, was attended by 385 developing farmers. 

Petro Naudé, Managing Director of SerDev says that SerDev’s goal is to mentor and support developing farmers in transitioning from traditional to commercial farming, helping them become independent, sustainable, and confident farmers. She encourages the farmers to seize opportunities and keep an open mind to learn new things.

Since 2018, SerDev has worked with over 700 farmers who now manage 460,000 hectares of land and over 40,000 cattle. The organization would like to thank Absa for their sponsorship over the past two years and Dr. Langa Simela and Dr. Reaan Immelman for their support.

Maria Tswayi of Hertzogville and Merriam Vent of Reddersburg were jointly  awarded the Sernick Female Farmer of the year award for their successful implementation of SerDev’s advice and training, and achieving a 100% calving rate. Maria Tswayi also won the overall Sernick Farmer of the Year.

Throughout the day, farmers received insights from a number of speakers, who shared their knowledge on diverse subjects. Sernick Group Chairman, Nick Serfontein kicked off the event by reminding attendees to stay optimistic and expressing gratitude for their participation. Animal Health specialist, Dr. Faffa Malan stressed the importance of biosecurity in the industry and encouraged farmers to establish quarantine camps to prevent the spread of diseases.

Banking and loan requirements were discussed by Absa Business Development Manager: Agribusiness Dr. Langa Simela, who offered advice on how farmers can increase their chances of securing loans. Micheal Nethavhani from SA Weather Services shared information on how they can support farmers with weather information and services. Sernick Feeds Technical Advisor, Kobus Theart discussed the benefits of using supplements for developing farmers and how it can impact their bottom line.

SerDev’s Michael Atkinson introduced a new opportunity for farmers to participate in the local value chain, with the help of SerDev. The value chain includes a Grade C Feedlot and processing centre that are accessible and affordable. Louis Steyl from Bonsmara SA offered tips on selecting the right bull, followed by a live demonstration in the Sernick bull ring, in preparation for the upcoming Sernick Bonsmara auction on February 3rd.

The Farmers Day was a valuable exchange of information and sense of belonging to the greater Sernick family. The average age of attending farmers is becoming younger, bringing hope for a bright future in livestock farming.

SerDev would like to extend their gratitude to everyone who made this special day possible. For more information, contact Petro Naudé at 082 559 7210.