Farming dream realized after 50 years
Samson Mahlaba (73) worked as a farm labourer for 50 years before realising his dream of becoming a commercial farmer five years ago.
Mahlaba was a child when he first started working as a labourer on the 300-hectare Hoekieplaas farm in Reitz in the Free State. He never went to school and grew up with his brothers, as his parents passed away when he was six.
Even though he has no formal agriculture training, Mahlaba knew that if he had a farm of his own, his experience would ensure his success.


