While many young South Africans hold a negative view of agriculture, a graduate from Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) is actively turning the tide. Sphindile Xulu, an alumnus of MUT’s Department of Community Extension, is redefining farming as a vibrant, life-giving solution to hunger and food insecurity. In the context of young people’s experiences, he is making farming fashionable.
On 12 May 2026, Xulu and her sister, Ntokozo Xulu, a Durban University of Technology (DUT) graduate, proudly donned their farming attire to host a massive community “Planting Day.” The event took place at AgriGlam Farm, a thriving agricultural venture solely owned by Sphindile and located just outside their family home in Engonyameni, west of Umlazi Township.
The primary objective of the Planting Day was to promote sustainable agriculture, bolster local food security, and facilitate immediate skills transfer. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, community members, and local schools, giving every attendee a hands-on opportunity to get dirty and plant. “When we planted, we did not just plant a seed or seedlings, but we planted hope that our communities and the world at large could be better if we all work together and collaborate,” Sphindile Xulu explained.
A core focus of the day was engaging the younger generation. Learners and teachers from iNwabi High School, Sikhwama High School, and Engonyameni Primary School participated directly in the fields, planting spinach intercropped with onions, an agricultural technique used to maximise space and naturally repel pests. For the learners, the day was an eye-opening exposure to the agricultural industry and the power of higher education, with representatives from various companies and universities giving talks on career pathways.
AgriGlam Farm is fast becoming a hub for academic and community development. The farm currently hosts three college students fulfilling their in-service training, one MUT Department of Agriculture graduate completing an internship, and three dedicated community volunteers.
The scale of the event was made possible through a wide network of corporate, government, and community sponsors who contributed everything from infrastructure to daily meals. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Rural Development provided infrastructure funding and vegetable seedlings; Radisson Blu Hotel provided high-quality seeds; Ilangabi Elingacishi Farm & Vuka Supply Farm provided professional farming mentorship and school seedlings; WESSA (Wildlife & Environment Society of SA) Environmental stewardship guidance and catering for attendees; Boxer Umlazi Mega City provided breakfast for the event participants; Durban Natural Science Museum and Umlazi FM provided educational outreach and media coverage; Local CPF and South African Police Service provided event security and community support; while MUT’s Dr Vincent Ndou, Crop Production Lecturer, offered academic support and agricultural expertise.
The success of the Planting Day comes on the heels of major infrastructural breakthroughs for AgriGlam Farm. The venture previously struggled with acute water shortages and securing the perimeter. Thanks to recent development funding from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the farm has successfully installed a borehole and an automated sprinkler irrigation system, alongside expanded fencing.
With a reliable water source and more land cleared, Sphindile Xulu is setting her sights on commercial growth. AgriGlam Farm plans to increase crop production to supply major commercial markets, while continuing to feed and empower the local communities of Engonyameni and Umlazi Township.