RCL FOODS: Growing what matters through purposeful partnerships

In the beating heart of rural South Africa, something powerful is taking root. A movement led by ForFarmers is not only supporting a new generation of farmers – it’s helping entire communities in the Western Cape’s winter grain-producing areas find new footing. Young agricultural graduates are returning home, small businesses are opening their doors, and neighbouring farmers – both commercial and emerging – are working the land side by side. This is more than a farming initiative. It’s a story of shared growth, hope, and renewal.

At RCL FOODS, we’re proud to walk alongside ForFarmers on this journey – because we believe that transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes partnership, persistence, and a willingness to back the people who are building a better food system from the ground up.

RCL FOODS has played a critical role in advancing ForFarmers’ vision of building a new generation of empowered South African farmers. Our role has gone well beyond market access. Through our Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) funding, we’ve actively supported the integration of smallholder grain farmers into our value chain – creating a clear path from farm to market. That means these farmers aren’t just financed – they’re commercially embedded, with ongoing support designed to help them thrive, not just survive.

It’s a deliberate and long-term approach. One that helps de-risk farming ventures, unlock scale, and build an inclusive and sustainable grain value chain – while supporting national imperatives like food security, rural development and BBBEE.

Importantly, the ripple effects are already evident. There’s real traction on the ground. Emerging farmers are gaining confidence and productivity is improving. Newly graduated agricultural students – employed by ForFarmers – are bringing fresh energy and innovation to the regions they serve. Rural communities are stabilising. Businesses are taking root. And harmony is growing, as neighbouring commercial farmers step in to support where needed.

This isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a replicable model for how meaningful private sector partnerships can contribute to structural change. And while we are proud of the role we play, we remain mindful that it’s the collective effort – and the people at the centre – that make this possible.

As ForFarmers continues to expand its “whole farm plan” financing model and build Agri Hubs of Excellence, RCL FOODS remains committed to anchoring those efforts with market relevance, technical support and long-term commercial viability.

Because when farmers thrive, communities grow. And when partnerships are rooted in purpose, transformation becomes more than an ambition – it becomes a shared reality.