Celebrating the Transformation of Horticultural Value Chains in South Africa

SEF participants learn to grow crops, from seed to table, before graduating from the programme.

Solidaridad, in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), is proud to announce the successful conclusion of South Africa's Social Employment Fund (SEF) project. A celebratory close-out ceremony was held in June, 2024 near Johannesburg to highlight the achievements of this transformative initiative.

The SEF programme, which focused on the horticultural value chain, placed over 2,000 workers on farms across the Gauteng region for immersive learning experiences. These workers engaged in comprehensive activities including soil preparation, crop maintenance, record-keeping and entrepreneurship.

"The SEF project has truly revolutionized the horticultural sector by equipping workers with essential skills and knowledge. The positive impact on the livelihoods of these workers and the broader community is immeasurable," says Mohau Mailula, Solidaridad Country Manager for South Africa.

According to Mailula, the SEF project has demonstrated the power of strategic partnerships to drive economic and social progress. The skills and experiences gained by the participants are said to have had a lasting impact on their careers and the agricultural sector at large.

"We are proud to have been part of this journey and look forward to witnessing the continued success of these graduates. As Solidaridad, we welcome partnerships with government, the private sector, and other role players that can lead to constructive advancement of our people," adds Mailula.

SEF graduate testimonials

"I am a deaf farm worker and this project helped me overcome many challenges. I learned how to plant and have since received an SEF certificate. In the future, I want to start my own business and go into the entrepreneurial stream. I did not know that farming had so many elements attached to it, but am now ready to take on the farming industry," signs Faith Mola, a SEF graduate, while also praising the inclusivity of the project, including youth living with disabilities.

Another project participant, Andries Kganyago, also shared his newfound appreciation for farming. "Before the extensive training by Solidaridad experts and mentors, we thought farming was only about planting and harvesting. We now know that one has to do soil testing, prepare the soil, maintain the crop, and work the land to get a bountiful harvest. We are very grateful to SEF as it continues to give hope to other unemployed youth so that they can have the skills, know-how and confidence to stand on their own."

A recurring theme from the SEF Graduates was that this project helped them to reassess traditional farming practices and appreciate greener, more productive methods. Mmabatho Mbola, reflected on her experience:

"I grew up in a family where farming was a big part of our livelihood. Back then, we just planted seeds and saw things grow. Since becoming involved with the SEF project, I now know that one needs to do due diligence on soil preparation, pest control and so much more. The harvest is so much greater than when we just farmed for the sake of farming. I am thankful to my colleagues and the team for pressing on. You made farming exciting, even for us as young people."

Making Progress from the start

In 2021, unemployment in South Africa reached 34.4 percent, and the South African government initiated the Social Employment Fund project to strengthen the agricultural sector. Solidaridad was an implementing partner in the project, which was managed by Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa.

The close-out ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of the SEF project, but it set the stage for future initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development in the South African agricultural sector.

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