In the heart of Mpumalanga, a group of agripreneurs is leading a quiet revolution in the world of farming. Ezulwini Africa, founded by Lliam Roach and Mitch Marescia, is transforming the agricultural landscape by empowering young black farmers through innovative aquaponic farming solutions. Their vision is to create a network of small, systematised commercial farms across Africa that leverage scalable systems and human empowerment.
Roach's journey into farming was not a straightforward one. Initially an entrepreneur with no interest in agriculture, his perspective shifted during the Covid pandemic. He began exploring aquaponics, a farming method that combines fish farming and plant cultivation in a closed-loop system. Roach was drawn to the technicality and sustainability of this approach, believing it could be a powerful tool for creating real economic change in South Africa.
Ezulwini Africa specializes in aquaponic farming, which leverages the symbiotic relationship between fish and plants. The fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, while the plants filter and clean the water for the fish. This highly efficient system allows for the production of both vegetables and fish, with Ezulwini Africa focusing on a variety of leafy greens, including mixed lettuce, butter lettuce, spring onions, celery, parsley, and mint. Their produce is sold to Food Lovers Market stores and local distributors in and around Johannesburg and Mpumalanga.
One of the key challenges facing commercial farmers in South Africa is market access. Roach explains, "Farm life in South Africa isn't easy. The market is always against it, making it tough to buy seeds or afford transport for our crops." Ezulwini Africa addresses this issue by establishing a network of small, commercial aquaponic farms that ensure consistent production year-round, regardless of the season or type of land. This innovative approach not only tackles local food security but also makes it easier for farmers to access markets.
The agribusiness is committed to building resilient, sustainable, and land-agnostic farms that provide a nutritious food basket. Their goal is to sell fish and between two and four crop types per tunnel to local markets, ensuring the lowest possible input cost and an entirely off-grid operation. By doing so, they aim to empower young black farmers and create opportunities for them to build something significant for themselves and their communities.
Ezulwini Africa's first 1,280-square-metre tunnel, located in Dullstroom, is already operational and producing over 1 metric ton of crops per month. This is just the beginning of their journey, as Roach and his team have huge ambitions to change the landscape within the agricultural sector. They envision a future where young, aspiring black believers can take hold of their destiny and make a meaningful impact in their communities through sustainable farming practices.
As Ezulwini Africa continues to grow and expand its network of aquaponic farms, it is clear that these Mpumalanga agripreneurs are at the forefront of an agricultural revolution in Africa. Their innovative approach, combined with their commitment to empowering young black farmers, sets them apart as leaders in the field. With their vision and determination, Ezulwini Africa is poised to make a lasting impact on the future of farming in South Africa and beyond.
