Women form the backbone of many rural economies and play an important role in poverty reduction and food security according to the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Dr Morategi Mojanaga, North-West University (NWU) alumna and chief animal health technician at the Gauteng Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, says women in agriculture have a powerful story to tell about the role they play in society - stories of stewardship, resilience, and leadership.

The WEF found that female farmers reinvest 90% of the money they earn into their farms and their communities, thus acting as gatekeepers to a better future for their communities.

“In a month that focuses on women and the role they play in society, it is pertinent that we honour and acknowledge the contributions of mothers and women worldwide, the crucial role they play in agriculture and the impact they have on societies around the world,” says Dr Mojanaga.  

Breaking new ground for women

After obtaining her BSc degree in animal health from the NWU, Dr Mojanaga completed a master’s degree in the same field, and a PhD in agriculture with a focus on poultry production.

She has published three international journal articles, and wishes to spend more time researching and writing more scientific papers. It is her dream to become a leading thinker in the field as an academic research scientist.

Over the years she has held several positions, including animal health technician for the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, cementing her place as an expert in the agricultural space.

In her current role as chief animal health technician, Dr Mojanaga’s daily activities include liaising with stakeholders, provincial departments, and veterinary directorates of other provinces. She is also responsible for organising campaigns, rendering veterinary services to other government institutions and supporting community and livestock farmer development through primary animal health care.

Growing presence in agriculture

“The role women play in agriculture is changing. Not only are they taking on larger and more defined roles on farms and in agribusiness, but more and more women are also becoming key leaders in the agricultural industry.

“Women are taking the lead in many of the traditional male careers – be it as crop consultants, or as specialists in various agriculture fields and all aspects of animal health and livestock nutrition,” adds Dr Mojanaga.

As South Africa celebrates Women’s Month in August, it is encouraging that trail blazers like Dr Mojanaga are taking the lead to ensure women reach their potential in this vital sector of the economy.

Dr Morategi Mojanaga