By Mabuyane Mabuza
Recruiting the right employees is essential for the success of a farming business. In the last quarter of 2023, South Africa’s primary agriculture sector employed 920 000 people, highlighting the vital role farmers play in job creation. However, the industry’s history, including the “dop system” where farm workers were partly paid in alcohol, presents challenges that are still felt to this day.
A 2000 survey by researcher Leslie London found that 87% of farm workers had drinking problems. Sadly, more than two decades later, this legacy still impacts the
industry, affecting both productivity and the well-being of farm workers. While many conscientious, business-minded farmers strive to act in their staff’s best interests—often seeing them as family—the lasting impact of past injustices can
sometimes undermine even the best efforts and well-intentioned labour laws.
However, this article is not just about digging up the past. It aims to help new farmers navigate the complexities of recruiting farm labour. Your human resources strategy should align with your vision, strategic goals, and operational needs, making it essential to plan your team composition for the short, medium, and long term.
Age Matters
Why does the age of your ideal employee or new recruit matter? The knowledge and experience of older workers are valuable assets, but much of the farm workforce is ageing, which can take a physical and mental toll. As in other industries, the future lies with youth. Hiring younger employees means they can grow with the business over time. A younger recruit may also be ideal if they have the education needed for a modern agribusiness.
Education Level
Modern agriculture has seen significant technological advances in mechanisation
and planting methods over the past 20 years, necessitating the need for adaptation. The modern farm worker is key to any business’s success, but finding the right
labour can be a challenging and time-consuming task that some farmers may struggle to manage. It also requires patience and time, which may not be available for some farmers.
Where to Start
The best place to start is within farming communities. While you may not find your
ideal employees there, it’s a good starting point. Some committed individuals love
agriculture, even if their level of education may not be ideal; they have a lot to offer.
Therefore, start your “hunt” for your ideal employee here and now.
Now, where can you find modern farm employees? Institutions like North-West
University, University of the Free State, and Tshwane University of Technology have
strong agriculture departments and are keen to find opportunities for their final-year students and graduates. Don’t forget to also check your local Technical and
Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges too. Ideally, a mix of experienced farmhands and Gen Z recruits will drive your business forward. A motivated young person with limited education but a strong attitude and eagerness to learn can also be a valuable asset.
Personal Mission and Vision
It’s important to assess a candidate’s passion for the industry through well-prepared
interviews. Their involvement on the farm can reveal a lot about their character. It’s
also crucial to evaluate their knowledge of the agribusiness you are running.
For example, hiring someone with expertise in cattle farming may not be useful if you’re focused on grain farming. In short, make sure you find the right fit. With these tips in mind, providing good working conditions and offering competitive salaries are key factors in attracting and retaining staff.
Happy Farming.
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