Taung farmers benefit from 16m mechanisation boost as SAB and partners inclusive agricultural growth
Taung farmers benefit from 16m mechanisation boost as SAB and partners inclusive agricultural growth
Taung farmers deliver ~4000 tonnes of barley pa, which is all procured by SAB, highlighting the company’s commitment to agriculture;
Taung, North West, 17 September 2025. The South African Breweries is deeply rooted in South Africa’s farming economy, with the beer industry contributing over R2.2 billion to agricultural GDP and supporting more than 38,000 jobs in agriculture nationwide. Since 2017, SAB has invested over R650 million in agriculture development, ensuring that beer brewed in South Africa is made from natural, locally sourced ingredients while supporting inclusive growth by empowering communities across the country.
Today, this impact was brought to life at the ‘Cheers to Farmers’ event in Rooiwal, Greater Taung Municipality, where SAB recognised the role of local farmers in powering the country’s beer value chain. The event highlighted how investment, innovation, and committed partnerships are shaping a sustainable agricultural sector that supports livelihoods and communities.
The MEC of Agriculture and Rural Development in the North West, Mr Madoda Sambatha stated that the event showcased the effectiveness of partnerships among businesses, farmers, and the government. “Here in Taung, we see what investment in agriculture really means: productive land, jobs for local households, and thriving communities. Farming is the bed rock of our economy, and by supporting our farmers, we are also building a more inclusive and sustainable future for the North West Province,” he said.
The impact of SAB’s investment is clear in Taung and is done through an implementing partner Farmsol. Farmsol serves as an aggregator for SAB supporting our small-scale barley and maize farmers by providing sustainable solutions that link customers in the food and beverage sector. The farmers are provided with skills development, technical and infrastructure support, access to mechanization and agronomy services. These interventions ensure farmers’ growth and community upliftment in the form of food security and job creation.
In the past year SAB has supported approximately 62 small holder farmers producing 4000 tonnes of barley. This output was supported by R20 million in interest free loans and R16 million in mechanisation support, co-funded by SAB and the South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (SACTA), over the last three years strengthening agricultural productivity in the region. In addition, the programme has created and sustained jobs, both direct and seasonal, ensuring that the benefits reach households and communities across Taung.
“South Africa’s agricultural success rests on collaboration and innovation. The long-term commitment to research and development we witnessed today, including the introduction of new barley varieties and advanced mechanisation support, this helps farmers increase productivity while staying competitive in global markets. Beyond delivering tonnes of grain, our farmers are ensuring food security, economic growth, and opportunities for young people and women in agriculture,” said Mr Solly Molepo Senior Manager of the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC).
In the past year SAB has supported approximately 62 small holder farmers producing 4000 tonnes of barley. This output was supported by R20 million in interest free loans and R16 million in mechanisation support, co-funded by SAB and the South African Cultivar and Technology Agency (SACTA), over the last three years strengthening agricultural productivity in the region. In addition, the programme has created and sustained jobs, both direct and seasonal, ensuring that the benefits reach households and communities across Taung.
“South Africa’s agricultural success rests on collaboration and innovation. The long-term commitment to research and development we witnessed today, including the introduction of new barley varieties and advanced mechanisation support, this helps farmers increase productivity while staying competitive in global markets. Beyond delivering tonnes of grain, our farmers are ensuring food security, economic growth, and opportunities for young people and women in agriculture,” said Mr Solly Molepo Senior Manager of the National Agricultural Marketing Council (NAMC).
“At SAB, we are deeply committed to the farmers who make it possible for us to brew high-quality beer with natural ingredients grown right here in South Africa. For the past 130 years, the story of SAB and our industry is the story of these farmers; men and women who drive innovation in their fields, create jobs in their communities, and deliver crops that meet the highest standards. Cheers to Farmers is our way of celebrating their resilience and recognising the vital role they play in building a stronger economy for all,” said Kyle Day, Vice President of Sustainability and Procurement at SAB.
SAB’s agricultural programmes reach more than 500 farmers on average annually, with a focus on empowering women, youth, and developing farmers through skills training, funding, and access to markets. Partners such as FarmSol, NAMC, and provincial governments play a crucial role in creating an inclusive ecosystem that enables farmers to thrive.
