Photo: Octavia Avesca Spandiel
Kritzinger, who grows pome and stone fruit and runs Boran and Wagyu cattle studs, expressed his deep appreciation for the recognition.
“This award is really a big honour to me. It’s something I have been looking forward to all my life. I’m really honoured to have received it and [give] a massive thanks to Agri Eastern Cape for this whole evening and for everything they organised,” he told Farmer’s Weekly.
The awards evening marked not only Kritzinger’s achievement but also the growth and evolution of young leadership within the agriculture sector. Addressing guests, James Miller, chairperson of the Agri Eastern Cape Young Farmer Committee, spoke about the vibrant future of farming in the province.
“The room is certainly getting younger. I say that with no disrespect to those who came before us, having served as councillors and delegates for their farmers’ associations. It’s incredibly encouraging to see the new generation of farmers stepping forward, taking ownership, and actively shaping the future of agricultural policy,” Miller said.
He also mentioned the ongoing support of Toyota South Africa and Standard Bank for the awards, noting the commitment it took to judge the finalists across more than 1 700km of travel.
Leigh-Anne De Witt, Standard Bank’s executive head of business banking in the Eastern Cape, spoke about the bank’s commitment to supporting young farmers.
“As we honour the Young Farmer of the Year, we also celebrate every young farmer in this room and beyond. You are the ones who will carry agriculture through the challenges of the next 50 years. Thank you for your courage, your passion, and your willingness to be in the world,” she said.
Dwayne Kaschula, 2024 provincial winner and Toyota SA National Young Farmer of the Year, reflected on his own journey and encouraged others to take part in organised agriculture.
“This journey is more than a competition; it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and be inspired. You’re stepping into a space filled with wisdom and talent, [so] make the most of every moment and learn all you can from the incredible individuals you will meet,” he said.
Kaschula also expressed his gratitude for Agri Eastern Cape, not only for recognising excellence but also for the tireless work they do behind the scenes.
“[Agri Eastern Cape’s] commitment to farmers is unwavering, from ground-level support to advocating at every level of leadership. It’s because of partners like this organisation that we feel heard, empowered, and able to focus on what we love,” he said.
Kritzinger will represent the province at the national competition later this year.
