FEATURE: The AgriSETA Empower Women in Agriculture Summit. This landmark gathering brought together women farmers, industry leaders, and policymakers with a shared vision: to empower women in the agricultural sector and pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

A Visionary Leader: Gaitsiwe Sharon Sepeng, the first woman to chair AgriSETA South Africa, delivered a powerful keynote address that resonated deeply with all attendees. Sepeng, who has defied the odds to become a trailblazer in her field, emphasized the critical role of women in driving sustainable development in agriculture.

In her keynote address, Chairperson Sepeng highlighted the urgent need for skills transfer in the agricultural sector. She underscored the importance of equipping women with the necessary skills to thrive in agriculture, from modern farming techniques to financial management and digital literacy. Sepeng passionately encouraged women to take control of their destinies within the framework of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE). She urged them not to be mere invitees in B-BBEE deals aimed at ticking representation boxes but to form their own companies and invite other particies  to join, thereby ensuring women remain the majority shareholders. She emphasized the need for women to break barriers and position themselves strategically within the value chain.

Addressing the recent tragic incidents of pesticide poisoning in South Africa, Sepang advocated for comprehensive training in pest control. She stressed the importance of equipping women with the knowledge to handle pesticides safely, thereby protecting their communities and ensuring sustainable farming practices.

Sepeng also called for the inclusion of women with disabilities in all sectors of agricultural production. She emphasized that true empowerment and sustainable development can only be achieved when every woman, regardless of her physical abilities, is given the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

Sepeng’s address was a clarion call for women to seize opportunities and lead the charge towards a more sustainable and inclusive agricultural sector. Her words inspired many, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended the summit.

Sepeng’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. With a robust background in Education and Training, Research, Human Resources Management, and Finance, she has been a formidable force in skills development In South Africa having written an article on “Barries of Skills Transfer in the workplace”. As the Director of Corporate Services at the Greater Tzaneen Municipality, she has consistently championed initiatives that promote education and empowerment. As the AgriSETA Chairperson Sepeng’s journey has been marked by significant strides in enhancing agricultural education and training across South Africa. As the AgriSETA Empower Women in Agriculture Summit concluded, the atmosphere was charged with optimism and determination. The seeds of change have been sown, and with leaders like Gaitsiwe Sharon Sepeng at the helm, the future of women in agriculture looks promising and bright.