Wandile Sihlobo named PERSON OF THE YEAR by the Animal Feed Manufacturers Association of South Africa:
“for his outstanding and noteworthy contributions to the animal feed industry.”
My comment:
In much of what we do, the drive comes from an underlying belief that the agricultural sector of South Africa remains vital to our economy and should receive all the support to continue to prosper. We also believe that many areas of this country, particularly in my home province of the Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo, amongst other regions, could still see much progress in agriculture. These are also areas where agriculture could help resolve poverty, low-growth challenges, and unemployment.
We also believe that the agricultural sector is vital in addressing the inequality and dualism challenges in the rural economy. Understandably, when we discuss these matters, the focus tends to be on primary agriculture – farmland. But the sector is much broader.
It ranges from input and seed providers, financiers, machinery suppliers, researchers, and manufacturers, amongst others, positively impacting South Africa’s robust food, fibre and beverages industry. I have attempted, over the past decade and so, to play my small part as a “knowledge worker” in this sector.
I have received immense support from many great South Africans throughout the years. Thus, this great honour given to me by the Animal Feed Manufacturers Association tonight speaks to the work and opportunities many people have given me over the years. I remain hopeful that I will rely on their support for years to come.
I am also grateful to many people outside agriculture and the food, fibre and beverages industry who continue to read my articles and books and support the “knowledge work” we do. I am grateful.
Follow me on X (@WandileSihlobo).
