Farmer can’t keep up with his cabbages
The first veggies that were harvested on the farm were cabbages, spinach, sweet potatoes and paprika.
BURGERSFORT – A passion and love of farming have enabled a local farmer to succeed in this ever-demanding industry.
Edson Vheremu is operating a vegetable farm in Praktiseer. Mkhondo Farm was recently established by Vheremu, who is a former agricultural science teacher.
“While I was home during the lockdown, I realised there was space that we can utilise for farming just next to Tubatse River. I then engaged the owners of the land until they agreed to lease it,” said Vheremu.
The first veggies that were harvested on the farm were cabbages, spinach, sweet potatoes and paprika. “I recently produced hundreds of cabbages for local supermarkets and hawkers. Currently, we have more than 3 000 cabbages that will be ready before the end of September.”
He told Steelburger/Lydenburg News that he learned farming when he was still young.
“As a teacher, I always had the love for farming and now am excelling in doing the practical side to this industry. I am delighted that my hustle is bearing fruit. I urge all young farmers to work hard in achieving their goals. In farming one never rests.”
He said he is ready to supply businesses in and around Tubatse.
“It would be wonderful if people buy local. My vegetables are of high quality. If we can get support from local shops our farming businesses will prosper.”
Mkhondo Farm currently has six employees. “We plan on expanding the farm and hire more people. This will help in job creation and make farming an option for the unemployed.”
