Limpopo Farmer Leads Local Agriculture: The Rise of Tshililo Mafuka

From Farmhand to Award-Winning Producer

Tshililo Mafuka, a farmer from Muswodi Dipeni in Limpopo, has transitioned from a laborer to a key player in South Africa’s agricultural supply chain. After gaining years of practical experience in crop cultivation and machinery, Mafuka launched Bob and Maggie Agriculture (Pty) Ltd.

Choosing to specialize in tomatoes due to Limpopo’s favorable climate and high market demand, he began his journey on just 2.9 hectares of rented land. Today, his operation has grown into a resilient business, utilizing a borehole-fed irrigation system on his own land.

A Critical Link in the National Supply Chain

Mafuka’s success is a cornerstone of local food security. He is one of 10 smallholder farmers in the Musina area who collectively supplied over 3,386 tonnes of tomatoes to Tiger Brands. These high-quality crops are the primary ingredient for the iconic All Gold Tomato Sauce.

His contributions earned him the title of Tiger Brands’ inaugural Emerging Farmer of the Year for 2025, a milestone that recognizes his perseverance and consistency in building a sustainable enterprise.

Impact of the Hulisani Agricultural Development Programme

The transformation of Mafuka’s farm was accelerated by the Tiger Brands Hulisani Agricultural Development Programme. This initiative addresses the primary barriers faced by smallholder farmers, such as:

• Infrastructure Support: Providing essential irrigation pipes to unlock production potential.
• Technical Guidance: Expert advice to improve crop yield and quality.
• Financial & Market Access: Secured renewable annual contracts and financial support linked to supply agreements.

This program has not only benefited individual farmers but has also created 156 additional jobs in local communities and sustained approximately 500 jobs across the wider value chain.

Driving Rural Employment and Economic Resilience

Beyond the harvest, Mafuka’s business serves as a local economic engine, providing up to 20 seasonal jobs depending on the requirements of the production cycle.

Maanda Milubi, Director for Transformation at Tiger Brands, noted that such initiatives are vital for reducing South Africa’s reliance on imports. By investing in the long-term resilience of local farmers like Mafuka, the industry secures a steady supply of raw materials while fostering sustainable rural enterprises that contribute to long-term national food security.