The Kgodiso Development Fund (KDF), in partnership with the North-West University (NWU), is making significant progress on a flagship agricultural development initiative aimed at supporting emerging commercial farmers and strengthening food security in South Africa.

The NWU -Kgodiso Project is establishing an integrated, research-driven platform to develop climate-resilient and commercially viable farming systems focused on dry beans and ground nuts in the North West Province. The initiative brings together scientific research, farmer training, and value chain innovation to create a scalable model that supports emerging farmers and contributes to a more inclusive agricultural economy.

Through strategic investments in agricultural development, the KDF continues to play a catalytic role in strengthening farmer capacity, enabling market access and supporting research that advances sustainable food systems in South Africa.

“The Kgodiso Development Fund is committed to supporting initiatives that empower farmers with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to build sustainable farming businesses,” says KDF executive director Diale Tilo. “Our collaboration with the NWU reflects the importance of research-led solutions in building climate-resilient agricultural systems while expanding opportunities for farmers.”

The project is structured around four integrated research and development components led by NWU researchers.

• Establishing provincial baselines through agroecological, economic, and farmer capacity assessments;
• Developing and validation of high-value crops and climate-smart farming systems;
• Farmer training and capacity development; and
• Strengthening value chain integration and improving market access.

“Together, these four components create an integrated platform, linking research, training, on-farm implementation and value chain development to ensure farmers are supported throughout the agricultural value chain,” says NWU associate professor and Subject Chair: Agricultural Sciences, Gerhard du Preez.

“The initiative continues to build strong momentum through postgraduate research, stakeholder partnerships, and the development of farmer training programmes,” he adds.

About Kgodiso Development Fund

Kgodiso Development Fund supports the development of black farmers and small and medium enterprises across the agricultural value chain in South Africa. Through strategic partnerships, capacity development programmes and market access initiatives, the Fund aims to build a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient food system while supporting the growth of black-owned agricultural enterprises.

About the NWU*

The NWU is committed to functioning as a unitary, integrated, multi-campus university that enables equity, redress and globally competitive teaching and research across all three of our campuses. Our core activities, teaching-learning and research, are intertwined with community engagement and innovation in our eight faculties, most of which serve both distance and contact students.

The NWU offers more than just an education – we offer people a place in the world. Academically, students benefit from great choice and flexibility, enabling them to fulfill their potential and start preparing for their careers. 

Through collaboration with other universities and institutions internationally, we are part of the global higher education community. Our internationalisation activities include student and staff exchange and cooperation in academic, research, cultural and sports matters.