A conversation about building a sustainable and successful farming business

Interview with Nomhle Mliswa, CEO, Summerhill Farm

 EM: What inspired you to become a farmer?

 NM: I was inspired by my upbringing. My parents always practiced backyard farming in our garden and we never lacked. I grew up in a household where my parents, with their with their green hands, instilled in me a love for growing food. As a land reform beneficiary, I saw the opportunity to not only build a legacy but also to contribute to Zimbabwe's agricultural revival. What drives me is the idea of food security and the creation of sustainable jobs in our community.

 EM: What challenges have you faced on your farming journey?

 NM: Farming may come with challenges, but there are  rewards as well, both personal and for the countries, which far outweigh the obstacles. As a woman farmer, my journey has been challenging and fulfilling. Agriculture is traditionally male dominated, but I've proven that women can thrive in this field. I have been a game changer in farming.  At Summerhill Farm we grow a variety of crops such as maize, soya beans and wheat. We also used to do potatoes but we stopped because of the distances to market  and the cost that was  involved in potato production.

 EM: Can you share with us some of  the WINs that you have had?

 NM: I have also won accolades in as a woman in Agribusiness including best Female farmer in Africa in 2022.

I have won several accolades and that proves that women are making strides in agriculture. It's about more than just farming, it's about changing the narrative and proving that women can be powerful agents of change in the agricultural landscape, contributing to both food and food security and economic growth.   

  EM: What is sustainable farming and how have you embraced this at Summerhill farm?

 NM: Sustainable farming, also known as sustainable agriculture, refers to agricultural practices that aim to meet current food needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It focuses on maintaining the health of the environment, supporting local economies, and promoting social equity. Here are some key principles and practices associated with sustainable farming:

 Sustainable farming practices are designed to protect and enhance the environment. This includes maintaining biodiversity, improving soil health, and conserving water resources. Farmers need to make a living while implementing sustainable practices. Sustainable farming should be financially viable, allowing farmers to support themselves and their communities.

 Sustainable agriculture promotes fair treatment and good quality of life for farmers, workers, and local communities. It emphasizes access to resources and opportunities for all stakeholders. At Summerhill Farm, we have embraced sustainable practices to tackle the environmental challenges we face, including climate change and soil degradation. We use precision farming to monitor soil health, water management, and weather patterns. Additionally, we practice vermicomposting, which allows us to recycle organic waste into nutrient rich compost. This not only improves soil fertility but also helps with water retention and soil structure. By adopting these eco friendly methods, we ensure high yields while conserving the environment for future generations.   

 EM: Can you talk about the new technologies that that are emerging in farming?

 NM: Farming is evolving rapidly with the advent of new technologies, and we have embraced this change at Summerhill Farm. Precision farming and mechanization have allowed us to boost productivity and manage our resources more efficiently. These innovations make farming more sustainable, scalable, allowing us to produce more while using fewer resources. The integration of data in our daily farming practices is revolutionizing how we approach agriculture from  crop planning to harvest management.

 We are fully prepared to adopt these innovations and many Zimbabwean farmers are eager to follow suit. However, access to the necessary resources, including financing and training, is critical. While some farmers are already integrating modern technologies into their practices, others face barriers such as lack of funding. To fully implement these advancements across the agricultural sector, there needs to be more support in terms of accessible training programmes and financial assistance. 

 EM: Where do you market your produce?

 NM: We primarily market our produce locally, focusing on building strong relationships with local buyers. Consistency in developing high quality crops such as maize and wheat has helped us establish a reliable customer base. Word of mouth has been one of the most effective marketing strategies for us. By maintaining a solid reputation in the local market, we ensure steady demand for our products.

 EM: What do farmers need to do to develop a successful farming business?

 NM: Building a successful farming business involves careful planning, effective management, and a commitment to sustainability.  It is important to develop a solid business plan that includes  market research, analysis of local demand, competition, and pricing trends. Farmers also  have to understand their  target market and potential customers. It is also critical to set short-term and long-term goals for your farming operation and to define  what success looks like for you.

 Choose the right crops or livestock that are well-suited to your local climate, soil, and market demands. Consider diversifying your products to reduce risk and meet varying consumer needs. Crop rotation and mixed farming can also improve soil health and resilience. Prioritize quality in your products to build a strong reputation. Quality assurance can lead to repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth. Connect with other farmers, suppliers, and local businesses. Attend agricultural fairs, workshops, and community events to expand your network and evelop relationships with your customers. Consider farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture programs, or direct sales to foster loyalty.

 Develop a marketing strategy that highlights your unique selling points of get a good marketing team that understands your products and the market to do this form you. . Utilize social media, a website, and local advertising to reach potential customers.

Consider branding your farm to create a recognizable identity and tell your story, which can resonate with consumers.

 Farmers need to manage finances wisely  and keep accurate financial records to track income and expenses. Regularly review your financial health and adjust your budget as needed. Consider consulting with a financial advisor familiar with the agricultural industry for guidance.

.Prioritize labor management by hiring skilled workers and provide training to ensure they are knowledgeable about farming practices. Create a positive work environment to retain good employees and consider labor needs seasonally and plan for peak times in advance. Regularly assess your farming practices and business performance.

 EM: How can market access help farmers in the country?

 NM: Market access can also significantly help Zimbabwe’s  agriculture by creating opportunities for growth, improving livelihoods, and fostering economic development. Here are several ways in which enhanced market access can benefit the agricultural sector in Africa:

 Access to larger and more diverse markets allows farmers to sell their products at better prices. This will lead to increased income, enabling farmers to invest in their operations, improve their quality of life, and reduce poverty. Market access encourages farmers to engage in value-added processing, such as turning raw crops into packaged goods. This not only increases profitability but also creates jobs and fosters entrepreneurship within local communities.

 With better market access, farmers can diversify their crop production based on market demand. This will lead to more resilient farming systems and reduce dependency on a single crop, which can be risky due to price fluctuations or climate change. Accessing larger or international markets often requires adherence to quality and safety standards. This can motivate farmers to improve their production techniques and invest in quality control, leading to better overall product quality.

 Access to markets can incentivize the adoption of sustainable farming practices, as consumers increasingly demand environmentally friendly and ethically produced food. This will lead to better resource management and reduced environmental impact. Engaging with broader markets can facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building. Farmers can learn about new technologies, best practices, and market trends, which can enhance their productivity and competitiveness.

Improving market access will enhance regional trade within Africa, supporting initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This will help reduce trade barriers, increase trade volumes, and strengthen economic ties between countries. Enhancing market access is crucial for unlocking the potential of Zimbabwe’s agriculture. It will drive economic growth, improve livelihoods, and foster sustainable development. By addressing challenges such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory barriers, and access to information, stakeholders can create an environment that supports farmers and boosts agricultural productivity across the continent. Investing in market access initiatives will ultimately lead to a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector.

.EM: Can you outline the challenges that you as a woman farmer have faced?

 NM: As a woman farmer, accessing bank loans has been particularly challenging, to be honest. Financial institutions often have stringent requirements, and women farmers sometimes face even greater difficulties in securing capital. You find that men access funding faster than women do. I think when we go into these offices at the bank, they look at you and think, oh, you own a farm 345 hectares, where is the man? You know what I mean? That hasn't been a hindrance for me. If anything, it's been a challenge and I have proven that I'm able to do it and I will produce despite the challenges that we have in our economy.  This has been one of the biggest hurdles in scaling our operations and investing in necessary infrastructure like machinery and irrigation systems. Although there are initiatives aimed at supporting women in agriculture, more needs to be done to ensure that these resources are accessible to every everyone regardless of gender

 The government and agriculture associations have made commendable efforts, I must say, particularly in resuscitating irrigation systems and offering training programs. You find that parastatals like ARDA,  are really trying to promote irrigation.  They come to even us women farmers, giving us contracts. So  I must commend them.   However, more can be done especially in providing financial support, and ensuring that the latest farming technologies are accessible to all farmers. Creating a more collaborative approach between the private sector, government and farmers would help bridge the gaps in access to the essential resources.

 EM: What more needs to be done by the government to create a conducive environment for farmers?

 NM:  Zimbabwe is already on it's way to regaining it's status as the bread basket of Africa. For example, the recent winter wheat season we saw a huge increased in output. We are seeing increased production thanks to the government efforts to restore irrigation infrastructure. With continuous improvements in farming practices and infrastructure, we are seeing a resurgence in agriculture output. As long as we approach farming as a business and continue investing in technology and sustainable practices, Zimbabwe will continue on the right path towards reclaiming its agricultural dominance in the region.

  My vision for the future of farming in Zimbabwe is one where agriculture is fully commercialised, technologically advanced and sustainable. At Summerhill, we are committed to adopting smart farming practices and mentoring the next generation of farming farmers. I hope to see more women leading in agriculture and contributing to food security and economic growth.

 I will continue to advocate for policies that support sustainable farming and contribute to making Zimbabwe a leading agricultural nation once again. As long as we take farming seriously as a business, I believe we're headed in the right direction.  I think, for a long time now, commercial farming was perceived to be for men and it was a male dominated sector. But now you see a lot of women coming forth and showing that they can do it. They're in different sectors in agriculture. Some are in poultry, some are in animal husbandry, some are in cropping, and some are in horticulture. And believe you me, when you empower a woman, you empower a nation because a woman will definitely make sure that her family is well taken care of. I'm not saying men won't, but generally a woman cares about her family.

 EM: What advice can you give to the youth  and aspiring farmers?

 NM: The youth must also appreciate that farming is about patience. It's not  an easy thing to do. Farming is about being patient. When you plant  your seeds, you watch the plants grow and when the harvest time comes,  your see the fruit of your labour. That can take many months and sometimes, many years. Imaging if you have a coffee plantation or bananas. These plants give a harvest after months and years of waiting. It requires patience. But All in all, I just want to thank God for the opportunity to be a land reform beneficiary and a shining example to a lot of women even outside Zimbabwe.  Our country is definitely blessed and we've got a lot of land and as long as we utilize it well, we'll never go hungry.