Thobeka Amanda Manyathi is an agronomist at Kynoch Fertilizer and has expertise in crop production, soil sampling and fertiliser use. She works with farmers in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, offering training and advisory services about sustainable farming practices. She services farmers in the production of grain, soybean, maize, vegetables and sugarcane. Thobeka’s work involves teaching farmers about the best crop production approaches to boost yields, conserve resources and maintain soil health. She shares best practices through farmer days, study groups and interactive information sessions with farmers and other stakeholders such as the department of agriculture. It’s an important part of her job to bring agronomic expertise and knowledge to farmers, particularly those in underserved areas. Thobeka ensures that training is accessible and understandable, often delivering information in farmers’ native languages and incorporating practical, hands-on sessions. A major component of her work is providing demonstration trials and farm visits that offer farmers direct, in-field learning experiences. This approach gives farmers the confidence to make informed decisions that will benefit their farms in the long term. Thobeka advocates for the incorporation of biostimulants that enhance nutrient uptake, improve soil structure and promote root and microbial growth. She also lectures in agricultural service company Afgri’s Lemang training programme.
Educational Qualifications
- BSc Agriculture: Crop Science
- MSc Agriculture: Crop Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal
Greatest achievements
- Increased yields: Farmers have significantly increased their yields as a result of applying the knowledge and advice provided, with some moving from less than four tonnes a hectare to achieving six or more tonnes.
- Soil testing and health: Farmers now understand the importance of testing their soils and recognise how improving soil health can contribute to higher productivity and sustainability.
- Precision agriculture and cost savings: Through a better understanding of precision farming, farmers have achieved savings by applying the right products at the right time, leading to more efficient use of resources.
- Product knowledge and selection: Farmers have gained the ability to differentiate between products available in the market, making more informed decisions about which fertilisers are most effective for their specific needs.
What advice would you give to future generations?
I would say that the health of our planet begins with the soil beneath our feet. Healthy soil is the foundation of sustainable agriculture and the key to growing resilient crops that can feed the world. By using fertilisers responsibly and understanding the unique needs of the soil, we can enhance productivity without depleting the earth’s resources.