Sandile Makwati (31), a passionate agroecologist and social justice entrepreneur, is proof that big things can grow from small beginnings. Armed with indigenous knowledge, permaculture techniques, and an unwavering belief in sustainability, Makwati has turned a 1200 square meters backyard plot into a thriving organic farm, producing everything from carrots and beetroots to okra and broccoli.
“I’ve always loved agriculture. Growing up, I was drawn to the land. It felt natural,” he says, standing proudly among rows of neatly planted vegetables.
But it wasn’t until he stumbled across a social media post from Seriti Institute that his dream took root. The post advertised opportunities within the Social Employment Fund (SEF) programme in Standerton and for Sandile, that was the seed of transformation.
“Joining the SEF programme changed everything,” he reflects. “I received training in sustainable farming, and the stipend helped me buy seedlings, tools, and even make my own organic fertiliser and pesticides.”
More than just a farmer, Makwati is on a mission to restore dignity and resilience in his community. Through his backyard agribusiness, he not only sells vegetables and seedlings to locals and catering businesses but also donates fresh produce to struggling families in the area.
“I believe food is a right, not a privilege. That’s why I make sure some of what I grow goes to households in need,” he says.
Makwati’s vision goes way beyond just growing food in his backyard. He dreams of building a large-scale regenerative farm that not only puts food on the table but also grows minds. He wants to spark interest in agroecology, especially among young people, and even retired farmers and encourage them to stand up for a food system that’s fair, sustainable, and truly serves everyone.
“I want to be a leading farmer in Mpumalanga — not just to grow crops, but to grow minds,” he says.
