Overview

Agricultural Labor: From Challenge to Opportunity
South Africa's agricultural workforce represents a powerful human capital asset driving innovation, productivity, and rural development. Our 930,000 agricultural workers are partners in building a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.
Narrative Shift
Cost & Constraint
Core Asset
Agricultural workers are not just an expense but valuable human capital that drives productivity and innovation.
Narrative Shift
Unskilled Labor
Skilled Workforce
Workers possess and develop valuable skills that directly contribute to farm productivity and sustainability.
Narrative Shift
Seasonal Insecurity
Flexible Opportunity
Seasonal work provides valuable flexibility and can be part of a diverse, resilient livelihood strategy.
Narrative Shift
Passive Recipients
Active Entrepreneurs
Workers can develop side ventures and micro-businesses that enhance both farm operations and rural economies.
Human Capital
930,000

Skilled workforce driving growth

Economic Impact
R500B

Value created by workforce

Investment in People
R26.10/hr

Growing investment in workers

Productivity Growth
R307,000

Output per skilled worker

Skills Development
38%

Permanent skilled positions

Innovation Potential
45%

Adaptable seasonal workforce

Workforce Growth Trajectory (2020-2025)
Building human capital through sustained employment growth
Value Creation by Sector (2023)
How our workforce drives economic impact across sectors