Women have always been at the heart of agriculture, yet their essential role is too often overlooked. From planting seeds to feeding communities, their contribution is undeniable, but systemic barriers have historically limited their growth and visibility within the sector. Recognising this, Corteva Agriscience introduced the SoilSistas programme, a transformative initiative designed to empower women farmers in South Africa.
The programme was inspired by a survey conducted by Corteva that revealed the many challenges female farmers face. The findings highlighted critical issues such as limited financial knowledge, regulatory barriers, lack of land ownership, and minimal access to funding. These obstacles made it difficult for women to scale their businesses, despite their central role in food production.
Betty Kiplagat, Government and Industry Affairs Leader for Corteva Agriscience Africa Middle East, explains that SoilSistas was born out of the need to address these systemic gaps. The vision was not only to provide training and technical support but also to create a strong peer network that allows women farmers to share knowledge, build confidence, and raise their collective voices.
“SoilSistas is about much more than just farming,” Kiplagat emphasizes. “It equips women with the skills to understand finance, navigate regulations, and pursue opportunities that can change the trajectory of their businesses and communities.”
Since its inception, the programme has supported around 100 women across Gauteng and Limpopo, offering mentorship, training, and business development opportunities. Many of these women have now transitioned from struggling to survive in agriculture to becoming leaders in their field. Alumni of the programme are also taking on mentorship roles themselves, creating a cycle of empowerment and shared success.
Partnerships with agribusinesses, local organisations, and platforms such as Food for Mzansi have further strengthened SoilSistas, expanding its reach and deepening its impact. For the women involved, the programme has become more than just a training initiative—it is a movement where voices once unheard are now leading conversations about land ownership, finance, and inclusive growth in agriculture.
The SoilSistas programme demonstrates the power of investing in women farmers. By equipping them with tools, resources, and networks, it not only transforms their individual lives but also strengthens the resilience of entire communities. As the initiative continues to grow, it paves the way for a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural future in South Africa.