SE Holdings was incorporated in 2014 to create a sustainable agriculture ecosystem. With a level 1 broad-based black economic empowerment status and 100% black-woman ownership, the staff makeup is 83% youth and 70% female. SE Holdings offers holistic support to emerging commercial farmers and agribusinesses. Through a range of services such as mechanisation, training, technical support and market linkage, the company helps farmers access resources and achieve sustainability in farming practices. It has secured contracts with corporate clients such as Tiger Brands, Unilever and Sasol, further strengthening market access for its network of farmers across South Africa. It has also raised more than R173 million for the development of smallholder and emerging commercial farmers. SE Holdings has expanded its model to provide small-scale farmers with access to high-demand markets. The company has secured offtake agreements with Unilever, Morgan Beef, Daybreak, and its existing partner, Tiger Brands. This model enables farmers to collectively supply produce, enhancing volume and quality consistency for large buyers. These partnerships have created a stable market for more than 1 000 emerging farmers and, in the 2024 winter planting season, created 2 000 jobs. SE Holdings also collaborates with mining companies to develop secondary economies in mining communities. This project involves using rehabilitated land for agricultural purposes, providing new livelihoods for people affected by mine closures. The company is committed to regenerative agricultural practices.
The greatest achievements
One of SE Holdings’ greatest achievements is its success in securing sustainable offtake agreements with major corporations such as Tiger Brands and Unilever, allowing SE Holdings to play a pivotal role in promoting food security and economic empowerment in rural areas. About 90% of our food produced is in a climate-smart and regenerative manner. In the last season we secured more than 20 water use licenses, 10 environmental impact assessments, planted more than 1 500 hectares of trees and established 110 beehives
What advice would you give to future generations?
Caring for our planet is essential for our survival. Embracing sustainability is crucial. Sustainable agricultural practices conserve resources, protect biodiversity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the effects of climate change. Prioritise our planet’s health in every decision you make. Protect natural resources, support renewable energy and advocate for environmental stewardship. Remember, even small actions can lead to significant positive changes.