Young Letaba farmer sowing change in SA agriculture
At 22, Matlhane Thabiso Maphoto is transforming agriculture with Agricshare Africa, mentoring youth and promoting sustainability.
LIMPOPO – At just 22 years old, Matlhane Thabiso Maphoto is making a big impact in South Africa’s agriculture sector.
Recently named one of the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans in the Agriculture category for 2025, Maphoto is a farmer, entrepreneur, and advocate for sustainable farming practices.
As the CEO and founder of Agricshare Africa, Maphoto has built a digital platform that connects smallholder farmers across the country to auctions, livestock sales, bursaries, funding, and climate-smart farming resources.
His Bachelor of Commerce degree in Accounting from the University of Johannesburg helps him steer the business with a sharp financial and strategic focus.
In his hometown of Ga Maphoto, he manages a two-hectare farm and is the first in his community to reach the milestone of owning 30 cattle. His passion extends beyond farming; he uses Agricshare’s Instagram platform to share knowledge, opportunities, and practical skills with young farmers nationwide.
Maphoto also mentors young people, advocates for equitable land access, and pushes for policies supporting climate-smart agriculture and rural job creation. He urges policymakers to prioritise investments in drought-resistant seeds, irrigation systems, affordable financing, digital infrastructure, and agricultural education.
“Innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability are key to transforming agriculture and uplifting rural communities,” says Maphoto, inspired by his father’s belief that ‘Farming is the future’.
