Matatiele farmer expands maize project and creates local jobs

A 27-year-old farmer from Likhetlane village outside Matatiele is building a growing agricultural business that is already creating jobs in his community.

Zizipho Klaas started out in vegetable production but has now expanded into grain farming, planting 50 hectares of maize. His original plan was to cultivate 100 hectares, but this was reduced due to technical delays. Despite the setback, he is targeting a yield of six tonnes per hectare.

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His project is already having an impact locally. Klaas currently employs 20 seasonal workers in his vegetable operation, along with two permanent staff members. He says more jobs are expected during the maize harvest season, with plans to hire up to 50 additional workers.

In a region like the Eastern Cape, where youth unemployment remains a major challenge, small-scale farmers stepping into larger production roles can shift local economies. Klaas’s expansion shows how agriculture continues to be one of the few accessible pathways for rural income and job creation.

He is now seeking assistance with mechanisation equipment, which could determine how quickly he scales up production. Access to machinery remains a major barrier for many emerging farmers in the province.

While his story reflects determination and growth, it also highlights a wider issue: young farmers in rural areas often need support to move from small-scale operations into sustainable commercial farming.

For readers in Pondoland and across the Eastern Cape, the story signals both opportunity and challenge — agriculture can create jobs, but progress depends heavily on access to resources, funding, and equipment.

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We will update this story if more details emerge about support or funding opportunities available to him.