November 09, 2026
After learning the fundamentals of potato farming as a farm worker, Ngoako Masipa, who now owns Lehlowedi (Pty) Ltd, planted his first hectare as an independent crop in 2019. Today, he farms on a 400-hectare property under a long-term community lease, producing potatoes for the PepsiCo value chain while creating employment and economic opportunities in his community. With support from Kgodiso Development Fund (KDF) through development finance and technical mentorship. The farm now employs three permanent workers and approximately 90 seasonal employees during harvest.
Masipa said access to the right support has been instrumental in moving his business from opportunity to sustainable commercial production.
"Kgodiso Development Fund has played an important role in helping me grow my business. Beyond the funding, the support and guidance has helped me understand what is required to operate as a sustainable commercial farming business and to take advantage of opportunities within the value chain, he said.
Our mandate as Kgodiso Development Fund is to increase the meaningful participation of black-owned businesses throughout the food value chain by providing development finance, business support and strategic partnerships that enable sustainable commercial growth.
"Ngoako's journey is an example of what can happen when determined entrepreneurs have access to development finance, technical support and meaningful market opportunities," said KDF Executive Director Diale Tilo. "Our role is not simply to provide funding, but to help build businesses that can become sustainable participants in the food value chain, create jobs and contribute to the economic development of their communities."
Every hectare planted tells a story far greater than potatoes. It is a story of jobs created, communities strengthened, food security advanced and black commercial farmers building businesses that will endure for generations.
The visit reaffirmed that transformation is measured not only by funding approved, but by businesses that continue to grow, honour their commitments and expand their impact.